Apple Pay Security Reminder Text Scam: Fake Apple Support Warning
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
A new Apple Pay text scam is using fake “security reminder” alerts to scare people into calling a A text message claiming there is a suspicious Apple Pay transaction may look like a legitimate security alert, but it can be part of a phone-based tech support scam.
These messages often urge you to call a supposed Apple Support number to review or cancel the transaction. Once you call, scammers may claim your device or Apple account is compromised, then pressure you to install remote access software, reveal financial information, or buy gift cards.
What Is the Apple Pay Security Reminder Text Scam?
The Apple Pay Security Reminder Text Scam is a phishing and fake tech support scheme. It starts with a text message claiming that a suspicious Apple Pay transaction was detected, restricted, or placed on hold.
The amount is usually specific enough to feel real. In this example, the message claims there was a $143.95 Apple Pay transaction at “Apple Store (CA).” That detail is meant to make the warning feel credible. It also creates uncertainty. The victim may think, “I did not buy anything from Apple. Maybe someone used my account.”
That fear is the hook.
The text then says that if the transaction was yours, no action is needed. But if it was not yours, you should call “Apple Support” at the number provided. This is the trap. The phone number in the text connects to scammers, not Apple.
Once the victim calls, the scammers usually follow a fake support script. They may claim:
Your Apple ID was compromised
Your iPhone or computer is infected
Hackers are using your Apple Pay account
The transaction can be canceled only after a “security check”
A refund can be issued, but they need to verify your device first
Your bank account is at risk
You must act immediately to prevent more charges
The goal is not to help you. The goal is to gain control, panic you, and extract money or sensitive information.
How the Scam Works
1. You receive a fake Apple Pay security text
The scam begins with an SMS message that appears to come from Apple or Apple Pay. The wording is usually professional and avoids obvious spelling mistakes.
It may mention:
A suspicious Apple Pay transaction
An Apple Store charge
A temporary restriction
An account safety review
A phone number for “Apple Support”
“Reply STOP” language to look like a legitimate automated message
That final “Reply STOP” line is included to make the message look like a normal business SMS. But in this situation, replying is not useful. It may simply confirm that your number is active.
2. The fake transaction creates panic
The scammers know that Apple Pay is tied to real money. If someone sees a message claiming there is a suspicious Apple Pay transaction, they may react quickly.
The amount is usually not too high and not too low. It is high enough to worry the victim, but not so high that it feels unbelievable. A charge like $143.95 sounds realistic.
The message also says the transaction was restricted. That makes the victim feel there is still time to stop it.
3. The victim calls the fake support number
This is the main danger. The scam does not need a malicious link. It only needs the victim to call.
Once the victim calls the number, the person answering pretends to be Apple Support. They may sound calm and professional. They may use call-center language. They may ask for the victim’s name, device type, Apple ID email address, or bank name.
The scammer’s goal is to move the victim from “I received a text” to “I am now following instructions from support.”
4. The scammer claims the device is hacked or infected
After a few minutes, the fake agent will usually escalate the situation. They may say the Apple Pay transaction is only one part of a bigger problem.
Common lies include:
“Your Apple ID has been accessed from another location.”
“Your iPhone is infected with malware.”
“Hackers are connected to your device.”
“Your banking apps may be compromised.”
“We need to secure your account before the transaction can be canceled.”
“Do not open your banking app unless we are connected.”
This is classic tech support scam behavior. The FTC warns that legitimate tech companies do not contact people by phone, email, or text to say there is a problem with their computer, and real security warnings do not tell people to call a phone number.
5. They ask you to install remote access software
The scammer may then ask the victim to install a remote access tool such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or a similar app.
They may describe it as:
A secure Apple diagnostic tool
A screen-sharing session
A refund verification tool
A fraud protection session
A way to “remove hackers”
A way to “restore account safety”
This is where the scam becomes much more dangerous. If the victim grants remote access, the scammer may be able to see the screen, guide the victim through banking apps, capture sensitive information, manipulate browser pages, or convince the victim to approve payments.
Apple specifically warns that scammers posing as Apple or tech support may ask users to install screen-sharing software, and Apple says it will never ask for Apple Account passwords, verification codes, device passcodes, recovery keys, or other account security details.
6. They try to steal banking information
Once connected remotely, the scammers may tell the victim they need to verify financial accounts. This is usually framed as part of a refund, cancellation, or fraud reversal.
They may ask the victim to:
Log in to online banking
Open a banking app
Enter debit or credit card details
Share verification codes
Confirm account balances
Transfer money to a “safe account”
Approve a payment that they claim is only a test
In some cases, the scammer may blank the screen or distract the victim while moving money. In other cases, they simply pressure the victim into making the payment themselves.
7. They demand gift cards
If the scammers cannot steal money directly, they may switch to gift cards. They may tell the victim to buy Apple Gift Cards, Target cards, Walmart cards, Best Buy cards, or other prepaid cards.
The excuse changes depending on the script:
“This is needed to cancel the transaction.”
“This verifies your identity.”
“This creates a temporary refund code.”
“This blocks the hacker.”
“This restores your Apple Pay account.”
“The money will be refunded after verification.”
This is always a scam. Apple says Apple gift cards can only be used for Apple purchases, and anyone asking for gift card codes for something else may be targeting you with a scam. Apple also warns not to share redemption codes with strangers.
Red Flags in the Apple Pay Security Reminder Text
This scam has several warning signs.
It tells you to call a phone number from a text
A real security issue should be verified through the official Apple Support app, your device settings, your Apple Account, or your bank. You should not call a phone number from an unexpected text message.
The message creates urgency without proof
The text claims there was a suspicious Apple Pay transaction, but it does not show a real receipt, real Apple Account details, or verifiable information. It simply pushes you toward the phone number.
It says “Apple Support” repeatedly
Repeating “Apple Support” is a trust-building trick. Scammers often repeat official-sounding words to make the message feel legitimate.
The “Reply STOP” line looks artificial
Many legitimate marketing texts include opt-out language, but scammers copy that style to look compliant. In a suspicious security message, “Reply STOP” does not prove the text is real.
The caller asks for remote access
No real Apple Support agent needs remote control of your device to cancel a suspicious Apple Pay transaction. Remote access requests are one of the clearest signs of a tech support scam.
They ask for gift cards
Any request to buy gift cards and read the codes over the phone is a scam. Gift cards are not a security tool, refund method, or Apple Pay verification method.
What To Do If You Receive This Text
Do not call the phone number in the message.
Do not reply STOP.
Do not click any links if the message includes them.
Do not install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or any other remote access app because someone from the text told you to.
Instead, check your Apple Pay and Apple Account activity directly through trusted channels. Open the Wallet app, check your card transactions, review your bank account, and use the official Apple Support app or Apple’s official website if you need help.
If you are unsure whether a transaction is real, contact your bank using the number on the back of your card. Do not use the phone number from the text.
What To Do If You Called the Fake Apple Support Number
If you called but did not share information, end the call and block the number.
If you shared personal information, take action quickly:
Change your Apple Account password immediately.
Change passwords for any accounts you discussed during the call.
Remove any remote access apps the scammer asked you to install.
Restart your device.
Check your Apple Account for unknown devices or suspicious activity.
Contact your bank or card issuer if you shared payment information.
Watch for unauthorized charges.
Enable two-factor authentication if it is not already enabled.
Report the scam text.
If you gave a scammer remote access to your computer or phone, assume anything visible during the session may have been exposed. This includes banking pages, saved passwords, email accounts, documents, photos, and authentication codes.
What To Do If You Bought Gift Cards
If you bought gift cards and gave the codes to the scammer, contact the gift card issuer immediately. Ask whether the funds can be frozen or recovered.
The FTC advises victims who gave gift card numbers to scammers to report the scam to the gift card company right away, ask for the money back, and report the incident to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Keep:
The gift card
The receipt
Photos of the card and code area
The scammer’s phone number
Screenshots of the text message
Any call logs or payment records
Recovery is not guaranteed, but speed matters.
How To Report the Apple Pay Scam Text
You can report suspicious Apple-related messages to Apple. Apple says suspicious emails can be forwarded to reportphishing@apple.com, and if you entered personal information on a scam website, you should immediately change your Apple Account password.
You can also report the scam to:
Your mobile carrier by forwarding the message to 7726, if supported
The FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov in the United States
Your bank or card issuer if money or card data was involved
Local law enforcement if you lost money
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
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
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
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.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, 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:
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.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
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.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
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.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
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.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
The Bottom Line
The Apple Pay Security Reminder text is not a real Apple security alert. It is a fake support scam built around a fake transaction and a fraudulent phone number.
The scammers want you to panic, call the number, believe your device is hacked, install remote access software, reveal financial information, or buy gift cards. The message may look polished, but the pattern is clear.
Do not call the number in the text. Do not give remote access to your device. Do not buy gift cards. Check your Apple Pay and bank activity through official channels only.
FAQ
Is the Apple Pay Security Reminder text real?
No. The message is a scam if it tells you to call a random phone number to review an Apple Pay transaction. Apple does not ask users to call unknown support numbers from suspicious text messages.
What is the goal of this scam?
The goal is to scare you into calling a fake Apple Support center. Once you call, scammers may claim your device is hacked, ask for remote access, steal personal information, or pressure you into buying gift cards.
Why does the text mention a specific Apple Pay charge?
The fake charge is used to create panic. A specific amount, such as $143.95, makes the message feel more believable and pushes victims to act quickly.
Should I call the phone number in the text?
No. Do not call the number. It connects to scammers pretending to be Apple Support. Use only Apple’s official website, the Apple Support app, or your bank’s official phone number.
What happens if I call the fake Apple Support number?
The scammers may say your Apple ID, iPhone, or bank account is compromised. They may ask you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or another remote access app so they can “secure” your device. In reality, they want access to your information and money.
Is AnyDesk or TeamViewer itself a scam?
No. These are legitimate remote access tools. The scam happens when criminals misuse them to control victims’ devices, view private information, or guide victims into making payments.
Will Apple ever ask me to buy gift cards to fix a problem?
No. Apple will never ask you to buy gift cards to cancel a transaction, verify your identity, unlock Apple Pay, or secure your account. Anyone asking for gift card codes over the phone is a scammer.
What should I do if I received this text?
Do not reply, do not call the number, and do not click any links. Check your Apple Pay and card activity directly through the Wallet app, your bank app, or official Apple Support channels.
What should I do if I gave scammers remote access?
Disconnect immediately, uninstall the remote access app, restart your device, change your Apple Account password, change important banking/email passwords, and contact your bank if you opened financial accounts during the call.
What should I do if I lost money?
Contact your bank or card issuer immediately. If you bought gift cards, contact the gift card company and ask if the funds can be frozen. Save screenshots, receipts, call logs, and the scam text as evidence.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
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.
