How to Spot and Avoid Apple Impersonation Scams

Scammers have learned that pretending to be Apple Support is highly effective. People trust Apple, and the name alone creates urgency and fear. Understanding what these scams look like is the best protection — because once you recognize the pattern, you will not be fooled.

There are four common Apple impersonation scams you should know about.

The first is a fake phone call. A caller claims to be from Apple Support and says your account has been compromised, your device is sending suspicious data, or your Apple ID is being used in another country. They sound professional and may know basic information about you. They want to "verify your identity" by asking for your Apple ID password or a two-factor authentication code. Stop here: Apple does not make outbound support calls. Apple will never call you to alert you about a security issue without you contacting them first.

The second is a phishing email or text. It looks like it came from Apple — same logo, same colors — and says your Apple ID has been locked or there was an unauthorized purchase. There is a link to a fake login page that looks exactly like apple.com. The rule: before clicking any link in an email, look at the actual sender address (not just the display name). Apple emails come from addresses ending in @apple.com only. Anything else is fake.

The third is a pop-up alert in your web browser. You are browsing a website and a full-screen popup appears claiming your iPhone has a virus, your Apple ID has been hacked, or your computer is infected. It shows a phone number to call "Apple Support." Do not call it. Legitimate Apple warnings never appear in a browser and never include a phone number to call.

The fourth is a fake App Store or iTunes refund email. It claims there is a charge you did not make and offers a link to dispute it. Again — look at the real sender address, not the display name.

If you clicked a link or called a number: change your Apple ID password immediately at appleid.apple.com. Enable two-factor authentication if it is not already on. Check Settings > your name > Sign-In & Security for any unfamiliar devices. Report phishing emails by forwarding them to reportphishing@apple.com. If you shared credit card or bank information with a scammer, call your bank right away.