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

Apple Care Phone Number Scam

Apple Support and AppleCare scams typically involve fraudsters using spoofed caller IDs to make it appear as though a legitimate Apple phone number is calling you. They often claim there has been "suspicious activity" on your iCloud account or a fraudulent charge to create a sense of urgency.

Red Flags

  • Requests for Sensitive Info: Legitimate Apple representatives will never ask for your Apple ID password, iCloud credentials, or two-factor verification codes over the phone.
  • Urgent Threats: Scammers often claim your account will be locked or you will be liable for charges if you do not act immediately.
  • Payment Demands: They may ask for payment via Apple Gift Cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
  • Remote Access: A common tactic is asking you to download software (like AnyDesk or TeamViewer) to give them remote control of your device.

Protect Yourself

  • Hang Up: If you receive an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be Apple, hang up immediately.
  • Use Official Channels: Only contact Apple Support through the numbers and links provided on the official Apple Support website.
  • Avoid Sponsored Ads: When searching for support numbers, do not click on "sponsored" results, as scammers often pay to have their fake numbers appear at the top of search results.
  • Enable 2FA: Use Two-Factor Authentication to add an extra layer of security to your Apple Account.

Reporting the Scam

  • Apple: Forward suspicious emails or screenshots of scam texts to reportphishing@apple.com.
  • Federal Trade Commission (US): Report scam calls at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  • FaceTime Fraud: Report suspicious FaceTime calls by emailing a screenshot to reportfacetimefraud@apple.com.
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