Scam warning
“I Sent You Money by Mistake”
Money suddenly shows up in your Zelle, Venmo or Cash App account from someone you don't know. Then they message you: “Sorry, I sent that by mistake, can you send it back?” The money they sent was stolen, and it will be taken back from you, so you lose whatever you sent.
Also called: Accidental payment scam, Wrong payment scam, Venmo mistake scam, Cash App refund scam
The one thing to remember
Don't send it back yourself. Tell the app or your bank, and let them reverse it.
How it happens
- A payment from a stranger appears in your app.
- They message you, very polite or very upset, asking for it back.
- The money came from a stolen card or account.
- You send it back. Later the real owner reports the theft and the original payment is reversed. You're out the money.
Warning signs
- Money from someone you don't know.
- A quick message asking you to send it back, sometimes to a different account.
- Pressure or guilt: “I need it for rent.”
What to do
- Don't spend it and don't send it back.
- Contact the app's support from inside the app, or call your bank, and tell them about the payment.
- Let the sender ask their own bank to cancel it.
Last checked: October 31, 2026