Apple users, the fake email below which claims there is a technical problem that prevented Apple from automatically renewing your accounts, is a phishing scam. The fake email is being sent by cybercriminals to trick Apple users into visiting a phishing website that steals account credentials (usernames and passwords). Once the cybercriminals have stolen their potential victims' account credentials, they will gain access to their accounts and use them fraudulently.
Therefore, Apple users who have already been tricked by the scam are asked to change their passwords immediately, check accounts and report any discrepancies to Apple.
The "Apple Automatic Account Renewal Technical Problem" Phishing Scam
From: Apple <kir3029d@www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us>
Date: Feb 12, 2018 12:45 PM
Subject: Review your activity.
To: mail@service.apple.com
There was a technical problem that prevented us from automatically renewing your account. Please note that your account will expire in less than 48h. It's imperative to conduct an audit of your information is present, otherwise, your account will be destroyed.
Update Account Information
We invite you to act fast, if you need any help you can contact our online support.
Regards,
Apple Support
Apple respects your privacy.
Information regarding your personal information can be viewed at https://www.apple.com/legal/privacy/
Copyright 2018 Apple Ltd. All rights reserved
Apple users should never click on a link in an email message to sign into their accounts. They should instead, go directly to https://appleid.apple.com/ and sign-in from there. If there is something wrong with their accounts, they will be alerted after signing in.