Don’t Fall for the FAKE Apple Pay Pre Authorization Text Scam
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
The “Apple Pay Pre Authorization” text message scam targets Apple device owners by sending a misleading text that looks like it comes from Apple, warning about a fraudulent purchase or account access. But the scam goes much deeper than just a text, and can end up costing victims hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take an in-depth look at how the Apple Pay Pre Authorization text scam works, who is behind it, and most importantly, how to protect yourself from falling victim.
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Overview of the Scam
The Apple Pay Pre Authorization scam begins with victims receiving an unsolicited text message claiming to be from “Apple Security” or “Apple Support.” The message will typically say that your Apple ID or device has been used to make a suspicious purchase or that unusual login activity has been detected. The text will then urge you to call a provided phone number ending in “-2186” and posing as Apple support in order to supposedly cancel the charge and secure your account.
However, the phone numbers provided connect you with sophisticated criminal call centers, completely unrelated to Apple. These scam call centers have one purpose: to gain remote access to your device and accounts in order to steal your personal and financial information. The criminals rely on the text messages appearing legitimate and the urgency created by the supposed account compromise to trick unsuspecting victims.
Once scammers gain remote access to a victim’s device, their methods of exploitation can vary. However, end goals tend to include obtaining banking info, credit card numbers, account passwords, and access to accounts like Venmo or PayPal. They may also directly request funds in the form of gift cards or cryptocurrency. Sadly, many victims have lost thousands of dollars falling prey to the manipulative social engineering tactics of these criminal call centers.
It is critically important to understand that Apple does not initiate unsolicited communications via text message to warn users about potential account issues. Any such message is an obvious sign of a scam. Apple’s legitimate customer support numbers are publicly listed on their website and devotion to user privacy means they will never request remote access to a customer’s device. We will cover what to do if you receive one of these scam texts later in this article.
How the Apple Pay Pre Authorization Scam Works
Now that we’ve covered the overview, let’s break down step-by-step how scammers leverage the Apple Pay Pre Authorization text scam:
1. Victims Receive a Fake Security Alert Text
The scam process begins when criminals collect Apple user phone numbers and send text messages en masse. The messages are made to appear as if they are from Apple, often using the company logo and naming conventions like “Apple Support.” The texts will claim that the recipient’s Apple ID was used to make a suspicious purchase or that an unrecognized device accessed their iCloud account.
Examples include:
“Apple Alert: We noticed suspicious login activity on your iCloud account from a Xiaomi device in Beijing, China. If this wasn’t you, call us immediately at 833-379-2186.”
“Apple Security Notice: Your Apple Pay was recently used at Best Buy for $512.23. If this transaction was unauthorized, please call 833-379-2186.”
The texts build a sense of urgency and security threat, scaring victims into calling the provided number for help. But in reality, the texts are spoofed and the phone numbers connect to criminal call centers completely unaffiliated with Apple.
2. Victims Call the Fake Apple Support Number
Understandably alarmed by the supposed account compromise, many recipients of the scam texts will call the number provided. Since the message appears to come from a legitimate source and references real Apple products and services, victims have their guard lowered.
When victims call, they will reach an operator at a sophisticated scam call center that has no actual association with Apple. These criminal operations invest heavily in replicating a legitimate support experience. Scammers will pose as Apple “support technicians” and some even utilize spoofing technology to make the call appear to come from a legitimate Apple phone number on caller ID.
3. Scammers Gain Remote Access to the Victim’s Device
Once scammers have the victim on the phone, their goal is ultimately to gain remote access to the device. Positing as support techs, they will walk victims through a series of standard troubleshooting steps. Eventually, scammers will inevitably claim the device has been “hacked” or “infected with a virus” that necessitates remote access for fixing.
Common methods for gaining remote access include:
Guided download of screen mirroring software like AnyDesk, TeamViewer or QuickSupport. Victims will be coached through installing the software and providing the 9-digit access code to scammers.
iCloud phishing page where victims enter their Apple ID login, granting access to the scammer.
Apple remote desktop sharing by having the victim download an “Apple Support Diagnostic Tool” or gaining permission through on-device pop-ups.
Once scammers have remote access to the victim’s device, they have free rein to steal personal data and further manipulate the device’s settings.
4. Scammers Exploit and Monetize Their Device Access
With an open door into the victim’s device, scammers have numerous opportunities for exploitation and financial gain:
Install malicious apps that can access messages, passwords, photos and more in the background. This may include screen recording malware to monitor the victim.
Access private photo albums searching for risqué images that can be used to extort victims.
Reset iCloud passwords so scammers maintain persistent account access, even after victims realize they’ve been scammed.
Steal login credentials and financial info by monitoring activity in banking apps, Venmo, PayPal, etc. They may also search emails and texts for sensitive information.
Drain connected financial accounts by adding their own payment methods and transferring funds.
Lock out the device through activation lock, demanding payment before restoring access.
Convince the victim to purchase gift cards or cryptocurrency and provide the redemption codes. Scammers will claim this is the only way to “protect” assets from the security threat.
Use saved payment methods to make fraudulent purchases online, often spending thousands of dollars on gift cards, cryptocurrency, or electronics that can easily be resold.
The scammers will exploit their control over the device in any way that can lead to financial gain. Their techniques take advantage of unsuspecting users and the intimate access our mobile devices provide to our digital lives.
What to do if You Get an Apple Pay Pre Authorization Scam Text
If you receive a suspicious text message claiming to be from Apple and warning about an unauthorized purchase or unusual sign-in activity, here are important steps to take:
1. Avoid Calling Any Number Provided
It can be alarming to get an urgent scam message allegedly from a reputable company like Apple. The natural reaction is to want to call to resolve the supposed issue. However, any number provided in an unsolicited text like this is extremely likely to be fraudulent. Calling puts you directly in touch with criminal scammers.
Instead, take time to pause and verify the situation through official Apple channels before calling random numbers.
2. Report the Scam Text
An important step is reporting scam texts to your mobile carrier:
AT&T: Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM)
T-Mobile: Forward to 7726
Verizon: Forward to SPAM (7726)
Sprint: Forward to short code #7726
You can also report scam texts by copying the original message and forwarding it to the FCC at 7726 (SPAM). This helps phone carriers in their efforts to trace and shut down scam operations.
3. Check Your Apple Account Security
Without calling any provided phone numbers, you can directly check for any unauthorized access to your Apple ID account:
Open appleid.apple.com and log in to manage your account.
Review account activity under “Security” for any recent purchases or unfamiliar device access.
Check security and password settings. Enable two-factor authentication if not already on.
Consider changing your Apple ID password if concerned about a breach. Avoid reusing this password anywhere else.
If everything looks normal, the text was likely a scam attempt with no actual account compromise. But verifying directly through Apple’s site is important.
4. Contact Apple Support If Account Issue Exists
If you do notice any unauthorized access, purchases or abnormal security issues on your Apple ID account after reviewing the details, contact Apple support immediately through their official channels, such as:
The Apple Support app
Getsupport.apple.com
1-800-275-2273
You can find authorized Apple support contact options at https://support.apple.com.
5. Wipe and Restore Your Apple Device
If you did unfortunately call a scam number and grant remote access to your device, consider the security compromised. Performing a factory reset/wipe is recommended:
iPhone: Erase all content and settings in Settings > General > Reset
iPad: Erase all content and settings in Settings > General > Reset
Mac: Use Recovery Mode to erase and reinstall macOS
This will remove any spyware, malware or backdoor access that may have been installed by scammers. Also change all passwords for any accounts accessed on the device.
6. Contact Your Bank
If you provided any financial account details or noticed any unauthorized transactions during the scam, call your bank immediately. Inform them you may be the victim of fraud and discuss options like freezing accounts, disputing charges and getting issued new account numbers.
7. Monitor Accounts and Credit Reports
Carefully monitor all your financial accounts and credit reports over the next few weeks. Look for any unusual charges or activity. Many scams play the long game, retaining account access to steal additional funds over time. Regularly reviewing statements and credit reports helps identify issues faster.
8. Educate Yourself on Tech Support Scams
Make time to educate yourself and others in your life on the red flags and deceptive tactics used in tech support scams. Knowledge truly is one of the best defenses. Understanding common techniques like urgent security threats, remote access requests and shady gift card/cryptocurrency demands protects you from manipulation.
Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware
If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.
Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.
Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Apple Pay Pre Authorization Scam
1. What is the Apple Pay Pre Authorization scam?
The Apple Pay Pre Authorization scam is a text message phishing technique where scammers send fake security alerts pretending to be from Apple. The texts warn about unauthorized purchases or account access and provide a fraudulent customer support number. Victims who call are connected to criminal call centers that gain remote access to devices in order to steal personal and financial data.
2. How does the Apple Pay Pre Authorization scam work?
The scam works in several steps:
Victims receive a text message pretending to be from Apple security, warning about suspicious account activity.
The text urges victims to call a provided number for help securing their account.
When victims call the number, they reach a criminal call center posing as Apple support.
Scammers gain remote access to the victim’s device through screensharing apps, iCloud phishing links or Apple remote desktop tools.
Once inside the device, scammers can steal personal data, install spyware, make fraudulent purchases and drain financial accounts.
3. What are examples of the scam text messages?
Scam texts impersonating Apple security often say:
Your Apple Pay was used to make an unauthorized purchase that will be automatically charged.
Suspicious sign-in activity has been detected on your iCloud account from a new device.
Your Apple ID was used to make a suspicious app/song purchase on the App/iTunes Store.
4. What should I do if I get one of these scam texts?
If you receive one of these scam texts:
Do not call the number provided in the text message. It leads to criminal call centers.
Report the scam text to your carrier and the FCC by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM).
Check your Apple account activity directly through appleid.apple.com for any unauthorized access.
Contact Apple support through official channels like the Apple Support app if account issues exist.
5. What happens if I call the number provided in the text?
The numbers in scam Apple texts connect to sophisticated criminal call centers posing as Apple support. They will pretend to help fix the security issue, eventually asking for remote access to your device in order to steal personal data and commit fraud under the guise of tech support.
6. How can I tell if a call is really from Apple support?
Apple does not initiate unsolicited calls or texts to request personal data or offer tech support. Any communication warning about account issues and offering a callback number is an indicator of a scam. Legitimate Apple support numbers are listed publicly on apple.com.
7. What should I do if I gave the scammers remote access to my device?
Factory reset your device to wipe any malware or backdoors.
Change all account passwords accessed on that device.
Contact your bank about any unauthorized transactions.
Place fraud alerts and monitor your credit reports.
8. How can I protect myself from the Apple Pay scam?
Never call numbers provided in unsolicited texts, even if claiming to be Apple.
Be wary of any unexpected calls or texts requesting personal data or offering tech support.
Avoid allowing remote access to your device by unknown numbers.
Educate yourself on common tech support and account security scam tactics.
9. Is Apple actively trying to stop this scam?
Yes, Apple is aware of this scam and working to have the fraudulent phone numbers shut down. They also advise customers to report any suspicious texts to help identify the scammers. However, phone scams are constantly evolving, so continued vigilance by consumers is critical.
10. Who should I contact if I was a victim of the scam?
If you were tricked by the Apple Pay Pre Authorization scam, contact your bank, credit bureaus, Apple support and local law enforcement. Reporting scams helps authorities locate and build cases against criminal call center operations.
The Bottom Line
The Apple Pay Pre Authorization scam offers timely insight into how mobile technology, data collection and social engineering are dangerously combining to target consumers. While scam texts and calls appear convincing, understanding how they exploit human emotions and lack of tech savvy provides protection. This also highlights why Apple, banks and all legitimate companies will never initiate unsolicited contact requesting sensitive data or account access.
Ultimately, avoid calling phone numbers sent in suspicious texts, even if they appear to come from a real company. Instead, independently look up official contact channels and verify any account issues directly with the business. Being cautious with random communications protects both your personal data and your wallet. Don’t let scammers leverage the intimacy of our mobile devices against us – a little awareness goes a long way in protecting what matters most.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."
Install an ad blocker.
Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
Be careful what you download.
A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.
Back up your data.
Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
Choose strong passwords.
Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.
To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.
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Meet Thomas Orsolya
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
