How to Avoid Scams When Using Digital Payment Apps

Your Digital Wallet Is a Target. Here’s How to Lock It Down. If you’ve ever used Venmo to split dinner, Zelle to pay rent, or PayPal for an online purchase, you’re part of a massive shift in how we handle money. These apps are incredibly convenient, turning our phones into pocket-sized banks. But that convenience has a shadow: a dramatic increase in sophisticated scams targeting everyday users. Consumer protection agencies, like the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection, are now issuing specific alerts about these risks. The message is clear: as our habits change, so must our vigilance. ...

April 20, 2026 · 4 min · BriefArc Desk