Fake Apple Support: how to spot a scam call or pop-up
Quick answer
Apple Support doesn't call you out of the blue, and a pop-up that tells you to call a number about a virus is a scam. Close the page, hang up and contact Apple through its official support site or app. Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Comes by
- Phone call, Website, Email, Text
- Pretends to be
- Apple
- Last updated
How it works
Scammers pretend to be Apple Support. Apple is the impersonated company here, not the scammer. Treat any link, call or pop-up that sends you to "Apple support" as unverified until you reach Apple yourself.
The usual routes: a pop-up warning of viruses or a security problem with a number to call, a call that appears to come from Apple (caller ID can be spoofed), or an email or text with a link to a fake sign-in page. Apple says to close the window or tab, not call the number. The FTC says real security warnings from tech companies never tell you to call a number.
The goal is your Apple Account password, a two-factor code, remote access to your device or a payment for useless software. Apple says its staff will never ask for your password, device passcode or two-factor code, or ask you to tap "Allow" or switch off security features.
Red flags
- A pop-up warning of a virus with a number to call
- An unexpected call from "Apple Support"
- Claims that you'll be liable if you hang up
- A request for your Apple Account password, passcode or two-factor code
- Asking to take remote control of your device or to buy gift cards
- A link to a sign-in page you didn't reach yourself
Example message
This is Apple Support. Your Apple Account has been used on another device and your data is at risk. Stay on the line and give me the six-digit code we're sending you. If we're cut off call [phone number] or go to [link].
What to do
- 1
Close the pop-up or hang up
Close the tab or window and don't call the number. If a call said you'd be liable for hanging up, Apple says that claim is false.
- 2
Contact Apple yourself
Use Apple's official support site or the Support app, typing the address in yourself.
- 3
If you gave your password or code, change it now
Change your Apple Account password and check that two-factor authentication is on.
- 4
If they had remote access, disconnect
Remove the software they had you install, run a security scan and change passwords from a different device. Our guide on what to do after a data breach covers the steps.
- 5
If you paid, call your bank or card issuer
Say it was fraud. For gift cards, contact the card company with the card number and receipt.
Report it
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.
Why you got it
Scam pop-ups hit anyone who browses, but calls and texts that use your name or number come from lists. Scammers get those from people-search sites and breach data. Serus finds the data brokers that list you and removes your listings, and alerts you when your details show up in a breach, so fewer scammers can reach you directly.
More Apple scams
Frequently asked
Does Apple call you about a problem with your device?
Apple says to hang up on unsolicited calls claiming to be Apple Support and to contact Apple through official channels you find yourself.
Will Apple ever ask for my two-factor code?
No. Apple says its staff will never ask for your password, passcode or two-factor code.
The number looked like Apple's. Is it real?
Apple says scammers can spoof a number so it looks legitimate.
I clicked or called. What now?
Change your Apple Account password, check that two-factor authentication is on, and report it to the FTC.
Sources
Something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we'll re-check it.