Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Apple Pay Text Scam Unauthorized Transaction Call Back
Apple Pay Text Scam Unauthorized Transaction Call Back

Any text message claiming you have an unauthorized Apple Pay transaction and ordering you to call a specific phone number is a scam. Apple will never send an unsolicited text message asking you to call a support number or click a link to dispute a charge. This tactic is a two-part social engineering scam designed to trigger panic so you hand over account credentials or financial details.

An Apple Pay Text Scam

Dear Customer,

A charge of $242.43 USD has been processed on your Apple ID at the Apple Store.

If this transaction isn’t yours, or you suspect it was made without your authorization, call us immediately at +1(888) 605-7941 to report it and request a review.

Details

Amount: $242.43 USD

Date: October 23, 2026

Method: Apple Pay

Status: Completed

Recognized? Reply “YES”.

Not your transaction? Call +1(888) 605-7941 right away to report it and request a review.

We previously attempted to contact you about this transaction on your Apple account but were unable to reach you.

Regards,

Apple Security Team

How the Callback Scam Works

  • The Bait: You receive a text message claiming a massive or highly specific unauthorized charge has been "paused" or "blocked" at an Apple Store.
  • The Trap: The message provides a fake "Case ID" and demands you call a specific toll-free or random phone number within a strict deadline (like 35 minutes) to cancel it.
  • The Sting: If you call the number, fraudsters impersonating Apple Support will try to extract your Apple ID password, credit card info, or two-factor authentication (2FA) verification codes. In some versions, they will pressure you to download a remote-access app to "secure your device," which gives them complete control over your phone.

What to Do Next

You received the text but didn’t call back

  1. Verify independently: Open your iPhone Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay or open the Apple Wallet app directly to check your actual history. If the charge isn't there, it doesn't exist.
  2. Report the text: Take a screenshot and email it to reportphishing@apple.com. Forward the actual text message to 7726 (SPAM) to alert your carrier.
  3. Delete and block: Block the phone number and delete the text.

You called the number and shared info

If you interacted with the scammers, you must act instantly to limit the damage:

  • If you gave out card or banking info: Call your bank or credit card company immediately using the official phone number listed on the back of your card. Tell them you fell for a phishing scam and ask them to freeze the card or account.
  • If you shared your Apple ID password or a login code: Change your Apple Account password immediately via your iPhone's native settings menu or the official Apple ID site. Check your active login sessions and force-sign out any unrecognized devices.
  • If you installed software:
    If they had you download any remote-management tools (like AnyDesk or ConnectWise), disconnect your phone from the internet immediately, uninstall the apps, and reset your device to ensure no malware remains.
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