Apple ID Alert Scam - How to Protect Yourself

Apple ID alert scams are phishing attempts via text, email, or fake pop-ups claiming your account is locked, disabled, or compromised to steal your credentials and financial info. They often create urgent panic, urging you to click a link or call a number. Never click links or provide passwords; verify by logging directly into appleid.apple.com.

Scam Tactics

Fake "Locked" Alerts: Emails or texts stating your Apple ID is disabled, requiring verification within a short timeframe.
Fake Purchase Receipts: Messages about expensive app or store purchases you didn't make, directing you to call to cancel.
Fake "Find My" Alerts: Messages claiming a lost device was found to steal your credentials.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Spam: Flooding your device with 2FA prompts to prompt an accidental "Allow" tap.

Protect Yourself

Check the Sender: Scammers often use unofficial emails or random phone numbers.
Look for Typos: Official Apple communications rarely have errors, whereas scams often do.
Do Not Call: Scammers may provide a fake support number to try and gain remote access to your device.
Verify Independently: Always visit the official appleid.apple.com website or use your device settings to check account status.
Report Scams: Forward scam emails or screenshots of texts to reportphishing@apple.com reportphishing@apple.com.