Your Photos Will Be Deleted Cloud Backup Scam

How to Spot the Scam

• Urgent & Threatening Language: Messages often say "Act now" or "Final warning" to trigger panic.
• Suspicious Sender: Check the email address; it usually consists of random characters or a non-official domain (e.g., .info or @rambler.ru) instead of apple.com or microsoft.com.
• Generic Greetings: The message may not include your real name or might use your email address as a name.
• Fake Countdown Timers: Malicious websites often use progress bars or timers to pressure you into paying a small "upgrade fee" (e.g., $1.99).

What to Do

1. Do Not Click Links: Never tap on links in unsolicited messages or emails.
2. Check Your Storage Manually: Go directly to your device settings (e.g., Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud) or log in to the official website (like icloud.com or google.com) to verify your actual storage status.
3. Report and Delete:
   • Forward suspicious emails to reportphishing@apple.com or reportphishing@apwg.org.
   • Text spam can be reported by forwarding the message to 7726 (SPAM).
4. Secure Your Account: If you already clicked a link or entered information, change your password immediately and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).

Legitimate Services

While real services like OneDrive or Google Drive may delete files if you are over your limit for a long period (usually 6 months to 2 years), they will notify you through official apps and verified email addresses, never via urgent text messages asking for immediate payment to prevent instant deletion.