PayPal ends protection for NFT transactions due to industry volatility

PayPal announced that it will no longer offer buyer and seller protection for transactions involving NFTs from May 20, marking a notable shift in the company’s approach to the digital asset market.

Historically, PayPal’s protection programs have safeguarded consumers against fraudulent transactions, providing refunds and shielding sellers from chargebacks and false claims.

However, the protections will no longer apply to any NFT-related dealings, as confirmed by the latest update to the company’s terms of service.

High-value transactions

The decision primarily affects high-value transactions. PayPal will no longer cover NFT sales exceeding $10,000 against potential fraud for buyers or sellers.

The company will still permit seller protections on NFT transactions worth $10,000 or less if the buyer claims the transaction was unauthorized and it meets other eligibility requirements.

A PayPal spokesperson told CryptoSlate that the firm is dropping NFT purchase protections and reducing NFT seller protections due to “uncertainty around proof of order fulfillment” and other concerns.

Paypal initially announced the policy revision in a discreet update on March 21 on PayPal’s official website. The adjustment reflects PayPal’s cautious stance towards the burgeoning but unpredictable market for digital collectibles.

Shift away from NFTs

The implications of PayPal’s updated policy are significant, signaling a shift in how major financial service providers engage with digital assets amid increasing regulatory attention and market volatility.

By distancing itself from the uncertainties of the NFT market, PayPal is attempting to mitigate potential losses associated with fraud in the sector, especially amid high volatility.

However, this conservative approach might also limit the company’s involvement and growth opportunities in the burgeoning digital assets market. PayPal has historically been open to exploring the digital assets industry and implemented support for crypto transactions in 2022.

While some industry observers suggest this might reduce buyer confidence in using PayPal for high-value NFT purchases, it also highlights the need for consumers to exercise greater diligence when engaging in digital asset transactions.

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