Paypal Security Key not working when paying for ebay items

[petekat03]

Hi,

Has anyone else had an issues with their Paypal Security Key while logging in when paying for ebay items.

For me from time-to-time when paying for eBay items; after I enter my Paypal log in details, Paypal says "logging in" but then just sit there until it eventually times out - it never gets to the Security Key screen.

If I log in to Paypal direct the log in with Security Key works fine. Other online shopping sites also work fine, it just seems to be eBay and it started happening from about Nov15.

The only workaround to pay for eBay item is to log directly into Paypal, temporarily deactivate Paypal Security Key, then pay for the eBay items with Paypal, and then finally reactivate the Paypal Security Key.

I've tried Paypal support but had no luck, they think the issue is on my end.

Pete

[amber-eyed-girl]

It isn't just you.

Had the same issue. What worked for me was activating SMS as the security and deactivating the key.

The SMS codes are working.

I have seen the problem on and off for a while, too. With other sites also.

[bookmanx500]

Same here, was working  ok last week, but not today. Same problem as in novermber last year.

I don't have a mobile phone so the SMS option is not viable.

Barrie

[amber-eyed-girl]

Well hopefully if enough people complain they'll get onto it.

[*tippy*toes*]

I've probably missed something, but what's the "security key"? I've always just put in my password and paid. Is it like when you make a new payment on net banking where they send you a code you have to put in before payment goes through?

[cathyjoyjoy]

I believe it's an extra level of security (an SMS I think) particularly useful if you are sharing devices.

My password is sufficient security, but I'd be interested to know why others need this PayPal Security Key.

[amber-eyed-girl]

The security key acts as a second, changing password code. You add it onto your personal one. Banks have them, or an SMS, as a second-step in your security. So if it takes a few extra seconds...why not. The SMS service from Paypal is free. They send you a code after you have put your regular password in.

It means if someone else has gotten your password, they also need your security key (a little plastic token or credit card type thing) or your phone to get into your account.

[amber-eyed-girl]

Yes, Tippy, it is the same. A one-off code to act as an additional temporary password to better ensure it is really you.

The security key is a physical thing you need to have with you, the SMS security is just to your mobile number.

It changes each time while your password is the same unless you change it. So it is more secure.

[*tippy*toes*]

Thanks Amber. I've not heard of it! I don't think PayPal have my phone number. Mr Tippy and I share an account, so if he buys something when I'm at work, he'd be a bit cranky if he couldn't pay because the code got sent to me. How do you get the physical one? That might be a better option in our circumstances. I change the password every few months, but one can never be too careful these days.

[amber-eyed-girl]

https://www.paypal.com/au/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=xpt/Marketing_CommandDriven/securitycenter/PayPalSecuri...

the security key costs 32.95$. You need that with you when you login.

sms are free but yes, you need the phone to hand.

 Remember too, that the physical key is being a bit flaky right now.

Mine was free many many years ago as part of a trial and looks like a little oval toggle. New ones are cards.