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A new scam is targeting iPhone users, putting their personal information at risk.
According to a recent alert from Consumer Affairs, this swiftly spreading scam involves deceptive messages, including counterfeit “Apple Pay fraud alerts,” paired with high-pressure phone calls designed to lure victims into sharing sensitive details. The ultimate aim is to empty the victims’ bank accounts.
One individual shared an experience where she received a text message warning her of a suspicious Apple Pay transaction. The message prompted her to call a provided number for assistance. When she did, she was connected with a scammer posing as an investigator.
The scammer persuaded her to withdraw $15,000 from her bank account. Fortunately, a bank teller recognized the scam and advised her to immediately end the call.
These cunning fraudsters exploit the fear and urgency often felt by consumers when faced with potential fraud, theft, or legal issues, using these emotions to manipulate and deceive their targets.
Typical alerts warn that a purchase was attempted or declined, an account is locked or under investigation, or immediate action is otherwise required.
Consumer Affairs warned that if potential victims call an attached phone number or click a provided link, they’ll be connected to someone who is impersonating Apple Support, a bank, or sometimes even law enforcement.
The scammer will claim your money is at risk and may have personal details about you that make it seem more legitimate, urging you to act immediately to “protect” your money.
In many cases, victims are then instructed to move money to a “safe” account, withdraw cash, or send funds via Apple Pay, Apple Cash or a gift card.
The ultimate goal is to get the victim to authorize a payment themselves, because once they do, “it’s often very difficult to recover,” Consumer Affairs warned, noting that does not send unsolicited texts asking to call support or provide sensitive information..
Experts noted that there are clear red flags to watch out for with these types of scams, such as unexpected messages about Apple Pay activity, requests to call a number, pressure to act immediately, instructions to move money or lie to the bank, or requests for codes, passwords or personal information.
If you receive a suspicious message, don’t click any links or call the number. Instead, check your bank or Apple by contacting them through their official channels and check Apple Pay activity directly on your own device.
If you think you’ve been targeted, stop transactions immediately and notify your bank or card issuer.