Apple Store Payment Authorization Text Scam EXPOSED – Investigation
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
A text claims an Apple Pay payment of $143.95 at “Apple Store – CA” is “pending verification” and urges you to call “Apple Support” at +1 833-808-4962 if you did not authorize it. This is a scam.
These messages are designed to trigger urgency and get you to call a fake support line, where scammers try to steal your Apple ID details, verification codes, or payment information. In this article, we break down how the scam works and exactly what to do if you interacted with it.
Scam Overview
The Apple Store Payment Authorization text scam is a social engineering attack delivered by SMS. It pretends to be a legitimate Apple security notification and uses a specific hook: a pending Apple Pay payment authorization at an Apple Store location, often “Apple Store – CA,” with a realistic-looking dollar amount like $143.95.
A typical version looks like this (reformatted for clarity and with the same meaning):
“An attempt to authorize a payment of $143.95 via Apple Pay at Apple Store – CA is currently pending verification.”
“If you did not attempt this transaction, please reach out to Apple Support at +1 833-808-4962.”
“Support Center +1 833-808-4962”
The core trick is the call-to-action. Instead of telling you to open the Wallet app or log into your Apple account through official channels, it tells you to call a phone number controlled by the scammer.
Once the victim calls, the scam turns into a live “support” con. The scammers may claim they can stop the payment, secure the account, “reverse” the charge, or verify your identity. In reality, they use the conversation to extract sensitive information or guide you into actions that give them control.
Why this particular scam is so effective
This scam works because it hits several psychological pressure points at once.
First, it creates urgency. A “pending verification” payment sounds like a narrow window where you must act immediately or lose money.
Second, it feels plausible. Many people use Apple Pay daily. A charge at an Apple Store location sounds like something that could happen, even by mistake, even from a saved card.
Third, it triggers fear and responsibility. The message frames the situation as a security event and suggests you are “assisting” in protecting your account.
Fourth, it reduces friction. Calling a number feels faster than logging in, checking settings, or contacting support properly. When people are stressed, they choose the fastest path.
What scammers want from you
The end goals vary, but they generally fall into a few buckets:
Steal your Apple ID credentials to take over the account
Capture your two-factor authentication (2FA) code to bypass security
Access your Apple Pay or linked cards through account takeover
Steal card details directly during the call
Convince you to add a card, “verify” a card, or confirm transactions that benefit them
Push you into installing remote access software (more common on computers, but it happens on phones too via “management profiles” or screen-sharing apps)
Trick you into sending money through irreversible methods such as gift cards, wire transfers, crypto, or peer-to-peer payment apps
This is not a “virus text.” It is a con. The text itself is the bait. The real damage usually happens after you call, click, or follow instructions.
Common variations you may see
Scammers constantly rotate the wording to slip past spam filters and keep the message feeling “new.” You may see versions that change:
The amount
$143.95 is common, but it could be $89.99, $199.00, $499.99, or any value that feels believable.
The location
“Apple Store – CA” is common because it sounds official, but it could be “Apple Store CA,” “Apple Store Cupertino,” “Apple Store Online,” or a generic “Apple Store.”
The payment method
Apple Pay is common, but scammers also mention Apple Card, iTunes, App Store, iCloud, AppleCare, or “subscription renewal.”
The urgency language
“Pending verification”
“Awaiting confirmation”
“Will be processed within 30 minutes”
“Unusual activity detected”
“Account will be locked”
The call-to-action
Sometimes they include only a phone number.
Sometimes they add a link to a fake “Apple Support Center” site.
Sometimes they tell you to reply “Y” or “N” to confirm, which is a tactic to identify active phone numbers for future targeting.
Why Apple is a popular brand for scammers
Apple scams are everywhere because Apple users are a huge target pool, and the brand carries instant credibility.
Apple also uses security-related language in legitimate contexts, such as Apple ID sign-in alerts, purchase receipts, and account notifications. Scammers mimic those patterns, then add one malicious element: a direct phone number or link that routes to them.
The biggest red flags in the message you provided
If you want a quick way to judge messages like this, focus on a few high-signal red flags.
It tells you to call “Apple Support” from the text itself. Legitimate Apple security alerts do not typically push you to call a random number in an SMS to stop fraud. They direct you to account settings or official support channels.
It uses generic labels instead of your real account context. Real Apple communications often include contextual details tied to your account activity, and they do not rely on vague “Dear Apple User” language.
It creates a false sense of an authorization “in progress.” Scammers love the phrase “pending verification” because it suggests you can still intercept the charge if you act now.
The message is doing customer support through SMS. Apple does send texts in some situations (for example, two-factor codes or delivery updates), but “call this number to stop a charge” is a hallmark of support impersonation.
It includes a stand-alone support number. That is the scam’s payload. Everything else is theater.
What happens if you ignore it
In most cases, nothing happens.
The “pending charge” is often fake. The scam is not “waiting” to take your money automatically. The scammers need you to engage so they can run the playbook.
That said, you should still verify your real accounts, but you should do it safely. Check your Wallet transactions, your bank or card app, and your Apple purchase history through official methods. Do not call the number in the text.
Who gets targeted
Anyone can receive these texts, but scammers often aim at:
People who recently purchased Apple products
People who use Apple Pay frequently
Older users who may be less familiar with Apple’s support workflow
Busy professionals who may prefer to “resolve it fast”
People whose phone numbers are part of leaked marketing lists or breached databases
Even if you are security-savvy, the scam can still catch you off guard because the emotional trigger happens before the rational analysis.
How The Scam Works
Below is the typical step-by-step flow, with the main variations and the techniques scammers use at each stage.
Step 1: The scammer sends a fake “payment authorization” SMS
The first stage is the text message that looks like a security notification:
It uses alert-style wording: “INFO,” “Security Alert,” “Payment Authorization Alert.”
It includes a believable amount: $143.95.
It mentions Apple Pay and a familiar merchant: “Apple Store – CA.”
It claims the charge is pending and needs verification.
It provides a phone number and urges immediate contact if the charge is not yours.
This message is designed to accomplish one thing: get you to call.
Links sometimes appear too, but phone calls are especially effective for scammers because a live conversation allows them to pressure you, adapt to your responses, and sound “professional.”
Step 2: If you call, you reach a fake Apple support desk
When you dial the number, you are routed to a scam call center or an individual running a script. They may answer with a greeting like:
“Apple Support, Fraud Prevention Department”
“Apple Security Center”
“Apple Pay Verification Team”
They sound confident. They may use hold music. They may have multiple “departments.” They may even reference a “case number” or “ticket” to seem official.
The goal here is authority. If they can make you believe you are speaking to Apple, you will follow instructions you would never follow with a random stranger.
Step 3: They “confirm” the threat and escalate urgency
The scammer will typically ask questions like:
“Did you authorize the $143.95 payment?”
“Do you recognize Apple Store – CA?”
“Have you shared your Apple ID with anyone?”
“Is your card linked to Apple Pay?”
If you say “No, that wasn’t me,” they confirm your fear:
“Your account is being used right now.”
“Your Apple Pay is compromised.”
“We need to verify your identity to stop it.”
“If we do not act, the payment will complete.”
This is intentional pressure. The scammer needs you stressed and compliant.
Step 4: They try to capture your Apple ID information
Next, the “verification” step begins. They may ask for:
Your Apple ID email address
Your full name
Your phone number
Your billing address
The last four digits of a card
Your device model
Some of these details might feel harmless, but they are building a profile. The more information they collect, the easier it is to take over accounts or convince real support agents later.
Step 5: The critical move, stealing your 2FA code
This is where many victims lose their account.
The scammer attempts to initiate a real Apple ID sign-in or password reset. Apple then sends a real verification code to your device or phone number. The scammer asks you to read it to them, often with a line like:
“I’m sending a security code to confirm you’re the account owner.”
“Read the code to verify we can block the transaction.”
“This code will cancel the authorization.”
If you share that code, you may be handing them the keys.
Apple’s two-factor codes are designed to prove you are the account holder. Sharing it defeats the entire security model. With the code, the scammer can sign in, change account details, add trusted devices, or lock you out.
Step 6: They attempt account takeover and lock-in
Once inside your Apple ID, scammers may try to:
Change your Apple ID password
Change recovery email or phone number
Add a trusted device
Turn on a recovery key they control
Remove your trusted devices
Access iCloud data such as contacts, notes, photos, and backups
Use saved payment methods for purchases
Sometimes they move quickly and quietly. Sometimes they keep you on the phone, “working the case,” while they make changes in the background.
The longer they keep you engaged, the more time they have to execute the takeover.
Step 7: They shift to direct financial theft
Depending on the victim and the scammer’s setup, the call may pivot to money in one of these ways.
Option A: They try to steal card details
They may ask for:
Full card number
Expiration date
CVV code
One-time passcodes sent by your bank
They will frame it as “verification” or “confirming the correct card.”
If you provide this, they can attempt fraudulent charges right away.
Option B: They push a “refund” or “charge reversal” narrative
A classic scam pattern is the fake refund flow:
They claim they “stopped” the transaction.
They claim they must “process a reversal.”
They may ask you to log into your bank app while they “guide you.”
They may try to manipulate you into moving money, sending money, or purchasing gift cards.
This is extremely common across many brands, not just Apple.
Option C: They demand payment through gift cards
This is one of the clearest signs you are dealing with a scam.
They might say:
“To secure the account, we need to validate the card.”
“You must create a secure token.”
“You need to pay a verification fee that will be refunded.”
Then they instruct you to buy gift cards and read the codes over the phone.
Apple does not operate this way. No legitimate fraud department asks for gift card codes to stop fraud.
Option D: They try to install remote access or a profile
On computers, scammers often push remote desktop tools. On phones, they might push:
Screen-sharing apps
Device management profiles
“Security certificates”
Configuration profiles that give them control or visibility
They might claim it is needed to “remove a hacker” or “secure your Apple Pay.”
If anyone instructs you to install software or profiles as part of “Apple Support,” treat it as hostile until proven otherwise.
Step 8: They may use intimidation or reassurance to keep you compliant
Scammers are trained to handle resistance. If you hesitate, they may say:
“If you hang up, the charge will go through.”
“Your account may be permanently locked.”
“We are recording this call for security.”
“I’m trying to protect you.”
If you push back harder, they may flip to reassurance:
“You did the right thing by calling.”
“We see this all the time.”
“Just follow my steps and you’ll be protected.”
This back-and-forth is manipulation. The goal is to keep you emotionally engaged so you do not stop to verify anything.
Step 9: If you do not fall for it, they still benefit
Even if you do not give up the biggest secrets, scammers may still profit by:
Confirming your phone number is active
Learning your name or email
Identifying what bank you use
Recording your voice responses for future social engineering
Adding you to “high response” lists sold to other scammers
That is why even a short call can increase future scam attempts.
Step 10: They recycle the scam using new numbers and new wording
These operations rotate phone numbers and templates constantly. Blocking one number helps, but it does not stop the campaign. You may see the same scam reappear with:
A different amount
A different “Apple Support” phone number
A different alert label
A new “case ID”
The structure stays the same: fear, urgency, and a phone number.
A safe reality check: how to verify a real Apple Pay issue
If you are worried about a real charge, use trusted sources:
Open the Wallet app and check recent transactions for the linked card
Check your bank or card issuer app for pending charges
Review your Apple purchase history through your Apple account and official purchase history
Contact Apple through the official Support app or Apple’s official website, not a number from a random text
If the charge is real, you will be able to see it in your financial accounts. If it’s fake, there will usually be nothing to find.
What To Do If You Have Fallen Victim to This Scam
If you clicked, called, replied, or shared any information, act quickly, but stay calm. Most damage can be limited if you respond in the right order.
1) Stop contact immediately
Hang up.
Do not call back.
Do not reply to the text.
Do not click any links they sent after the call.
Your goal is to cut off the scammer’s ability to pressure you into more mistakes.
2) If you shared a code, assume your Apple ID may be compromised
If you gave them any Apple verification code, treat it as an active account takeover attempt.
Do these steps right away:
Change your Apple ID password to a strong, unique one.
Review the trusted phone numbers and trusted devices on your Apple ID.
Sign out of any devices you do not recognize.
If your password will not work or you are locked out, use Apple’s official account recovery process through official channels.
Do not use any phone number that came from the text message.
3) Check your Apple ID security settings and sign-in history
Look for signs of unauthorized access:
New devices you do not recognize
New trusted numbers
Email changes
Password changes you did not initiate
If anything looks off, secure the account first before worrying about the $143.95 claim.
4) Review Apple Pay and card activity through your bank or card issuer
Scammers often lie about a charge to get you to engage, but you should still verify:
Open your bank or card app and look for pending charges
Check transaction notifications
If you see an unauthorized charge, report it to your card issuer immediately
Your bank’s fraud department can freeze the card, block future charges, and open a dispute.
5) If you gave card details, call your card issuer and replace the card
If you shared any of the following, you should assume the card is compromised:
Full card number
Expiration date
CVV
One-time bank passcodes
Ask the issuer to:
Cancel the card and reissue a new number
Review recent transactions
Set alerts for unusual spending
Time matters here because scammers may try charges quickly.
6) If you installed anything or added a profile, remove it and secure the device
If you installed an app at their direction, or accepted a profile or device management configuration:
Uninstall the app immediately.
Check for device management profiles or unknown configurations in your phone settings.
Restart your phone after removal.
Consider a full device reset if you are unsure what was installed.
If you are not comfortable doing this alone, get help from a trusted local technician or Apple Store, but only through verified official channels.
7) Turn on protective iPhone settings to reduce future scam pressure
These do not make you invincible, but they reduce the number of scam contacts that reach you.
Consider:
Blocking the number that texted you
Reporting the message as junk or spam in your messaging app
Using call filtering features such as silencing unknown callers
Filtering unknown senders in Messages
The goal is to reduce exposure, especially during high-volume scam waves.
8) Watch for follow-up scams in the next 30 days
After an interaction, scammers may escalate with new angles:
“Apple called you back”
“Your refund is ready”
“Your account is locked”
“Your iCloud storage payment failed”
“Your AppleCare renewal is overdue”
Treat unexpected urgency messages as suspicious. Verify through official apps and websites, not through numbers in messages.
9) Document what happened
Keep a simple record:
The text message content
The phone number used
The date and time you received it
Any information you shared
Any steps you took (password changes, calls to your bank)
This helps if you need to dispute charges, file reports, or track repeated attempts.
10) Report the scam
Reporting helps platforms train filters and may protect other people.
You can report:
To your mobile carrier as spam
To consumer protection or fraud reporting agencies in your country
To your bank or card issuer if money was involved
Even if you did not lose money, reporting can help reduce the spread.
11) If you are worried about identity exposure, take identity protection steps
If you shared personal details like full name, address, or date of birth, consider additional safeguards:
Place a fraud alert with credit bureaus (where available)
Monitor credit reports
Watch for new account openings you did not authorize
Not every scam interaction leads to identity theft, but it is worth watching for unusual activity.
12) Learn the key rule that prevents most “support” scams
A simple rule stops most of these attacks:
Never contact support through a phone number, link, or email provided in an unexpected message about fraud.
Instead, navigate to the official support path yourself using a trusted app, saved bookmark, or typed-in official domain. That one habit eliminates the scammer’s main advantage.
How to Remove Unwanted Apps and Malware
If a pop-up scam tricked you into downloading an unwanted program — or you suspect your device is infected — follow the free, step-by-step removal guide below to clean it completely.
Before you start: this guide may look long, but that’s only because we’ve broken everything down into clear, detailed steps that anyone can follow — no technical skills needed, and every tool we use is free. Please follow the steps in order. If you get stuck or have doubts at any point, stop and ask for help in our free support forum — our team will guide you personally.
Choose your device to get started. Browser hijackers, unwanted apps, and adware can infect Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices alike — click your operating system below to jump straight to the right instructions.
In this first step, we will manually check if any unknown or malicious programs are installed on the computer. Sometimes adware and browser hijackers can have a usable Uninstall entry that can be used to remove them.
Windows 11Windows 10Windows 8Windows 7
Open the Settings app
Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings. Alternatively, right-click the Start button and select “Settings” from the menu.
Go to “Apps & Features”
In the Settings window, click “Apps” in the sidebar, then select “Apps & Features“.
Find and uninstall the malicious program
Scroll through the list of installed apps and look for anything suspicious — a program you don’t remember installing, or one with a strange or generic name. Quick tip: click “Sort by” and choose “Install date“. Malware is usually one of the most recently installed programs, so it will appear near the top.
When you find the malicious program, click the three dots next to it and select “Uninstall“.
Didn’t find any suspicious programs? That’s fine — not all infections install visible apps. Just continue with the next step in this guide.
Complete the uninstall
Confirm by clicking Uninstall in the message box, then follow the remaining prompts. Read each prompt carefully — some malicious programs use confusing wording or pre-ticked boxes hoping you’ll click through without looking.
Open the Settings app
Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings. Alternatively, click the Start button on the taskbar and select “Settings” (the gear icon).
Click on “Apps”
In the “Windows Settings” window, click “Apps“. The “Apps & Features” section should open by default — if it doesn’t, select it from the list on the left.
Find and uninstall the malicious program
Scroll through the list of installed apps and look for anything suspicious — a program you don’t remember installing, or one with a strange or generic name. Quick tip: click “Sort by” and choose “Install date“. Malware is usually one of the most recently installed programs, so it will appear near the top.
When you find the malicious program, click on it and select “Uninstall“.
Didn’t find any suspicious programs? That’s fine — not all infections install visible apps. Just continue with the next step in this guide.
Complete the uninstall
Confirm by clicking Uninstall in the message box, then follow the remaining prompts. Read each prompt carefully — some malicious programs use confusing wording or pre-ticked boxes hoping you’ll click through without looking.
Open “Programs and Features”
Right-click the Start button in the taskbar, then select “Programs and Features“. This takes you straight to the list of installed programs.
Find and uninstall the malicious program
Scroll through the list of installed programs and look for anything suspicious — a program you don’t remember installing, or one with a strange or generic name. Click to highlight it, then click the “Uninstall” button.
Didn’t find any suspicious programs? That’s fine — not all infections install visible apps. Just continue with the next step in this guide.
Complete the uninstall
Confirm by clicking Yes in the message box, then follow the remaining prompts. Read each prompt carefully — some malicious programs use confusing wording or pre-ticked boxes hoping you’ll click through without looking.
Open the Control Panel
Click the “Start” button, then click “Control Panel“.
Click on “Uninstall a Program”
In the Control Panel, click “Uninstall a Program” under the Programs category.
Find and uninstall the malicious program
Scroll through the list of installed programs and look for anything suspicious — a program you don’t remember installing, or one with a strange or generic name. Click to highlight it, then click the “Uninstall” button.
Didn’t find any suspicious programs? That’s fine — not all infections install visible apps. Just continue with the next step in this guide.
Complete the uninstall
Confirm by clicking Yes in the message box, then follow the remaining prompts. Read each prompt carefully — some malicious programs use confusing wording or pre-ticked boxes hoping you’ll click through without looking.
Is a stubborn program refusing to uninstall? Use Revo Uninstaller to force-remove it completely, including leftover files and registry entries.
With the malicious programs removed, you’re ready for the next step in this guide.
STEP 2: Reset browsers back to default settings
In this step, we will remove spam notifications, malicious extensions, and change to default any settings that might have been changed by malware. Please note that this method will remove all extensions, toolbars, and other customizations but will leave your bookmarks and favorites intact. For each browser that you have installed on your computer, please click on the browsers tab below and follow the displayed steps to reset that browser.
ChromeFirefoxMicrosoft EdgeInternet Explorer
Reset Chrome for Windows to default settings
We will now reset your Chrome browser settings to their original defaults. This will reset your startup page, new tab page, search engine, and pinned tabs. It will also disable all extensions and clear temporary data like cookies. Your favorites, history, and saved passwords will not be cleared.
Open the Chrome menu
In the top-right corner of Chrome, click the three-dot (⋮) icon to open the menu.
Go to Settings
From the menu, select Settings.
Select “Reset settings”
In the left sidebar, scroll down and click Reset settings.
Choose “Restore settings to their original defaults”
Click Restore settings to their original defaults.
Confirm the reset
In the dialog that appears, click Reset settings. This restores your homepage, search engine, new tab page, and pinned tabs to default, disables all extensions, and clears temporary site data — undoing the changes the malware made.
Don’t worry: your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords are safe and will not be deleted.
Reset Firefox for Windows to default settings
We will now reset your Firefox browser settings to their default. The reset feature fixes many issues by restoring Firefox to its factory default state while saving your essential information like bookmarks, passwords, web form auto-fill information, browsing history, and open tabs.
Open the Firefox menu and click “Help”
Click the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner of Firefox to open the main menu, then select “Help“.
Click “More troubleshooting information”
In the Help menu, click “More troubleshooting information“.
Click “Refresh Firefox”
On the “Troubleshooting Information” page, click the “Refresh Firefox” button in the top-right area of the page.
Confirm the refresh
In the confirmation window, click “Refresh Firefox” again. This removes extensions, themes, and customized settings — the usual hiding places for browser hijackers — while keeping your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords safe.
Click “Finish”
Firefox will close, reset itself to default settings, and reopen with a window listing the information that was restored. Click “Finish” — your Firefox is now clean.
About the “Old Firefox Data” folder: Firefox saves a copy of your old profile on your desktop. If something you need is missing after the reset, you can recover it from this folder. Otherwise, delete the folder — it contains sensitive data like passwords and cookies, and may also still hold the malicious files you just removed.
Reset Microsoft Edge to default settings
We will now reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings to their default. This will reset your startup page, new tab page, search engine, and pinned tabs. It will also disable all extensions and clear temporary data like cookies. Your favorites, history, and saved passwords will not be cleared.
Open the Edge menu and click “Settings”
Click the three dots (…) in the top-right corner of Microsoft Edge to open the main menu, then click “Settings“.
Click “Reset settings”
In the left sidebar, click “Reset settings“.
Click “Restore settings to their default values”
In the main window, click “Restore settings to their default values“.
Confirm by clicking “Reset”
In the confirmation dialog, click “Reset“. This restores your homepage, search engine, new tab page, and startup pages to default, disables all extensions, and clears temporary data like cookies — undoing the changes the malware made.
Don’t worry: your favorites, browsing history, and saved passwords are safe and will not be deleted.
Reset Internet Explorer to default settings
We will now reset your Internet Explorer browser settings to their default. You can reset Internet Explorer settings to return them to the state they were in when Internet Explorer was first installed on your computer.
Go to “Internet Options”.
Open Internet Explorer, click on the gear icon in the upper-right part of your browser, then select “Internet Options“.
Select the “Advanced” tab, then click “Reset”
In the “Internet Options” dialog box, select the “Advanced” tab, then click on the “Reset” button.
Click on “Reset”.
In the “Reset Internet Explorer settings” section, select the “Delete personal settings” checkbox, then click on the “Reset” button.
Click on “Close”.
When Internet Explorer has completed its task, click on the “Close” button in the confirmation dialogue box. Close your browser and then you can open Internet Explorer again.
STEP 3: Use Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to remove malware and unwanted programs
In this third step, we will install Malwarebytes to scan and remove any infections, adware, or potentially unwanted programs that may be present on your computer.
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
STEP 4: Use HitmanPro to scan your computer for badware
In this next step, we will scan the computer with HitmanPro to ensure that no other malicious programs are installed on your device.
HitmanPro is a second-opinion scanner — it’s designed to catch what your main antivirus might have missed. Instead of relying on a single detection engine, it checks the behavior of files in the locations where malware usually hides. Anything suspicious gets sent to the cloud, where it’s analyzed by two of the best antivirus engines available: Bitdefender and Kaspersky.
Good news: scanning is completely free, with no limits. You only need a license when it’s time to remove what was found — and even then, you can activate a free one-time 30-day trial to clean your PC at no cost. (A full license is $24.95 per year for 1 PC.)
Download HitmanPro
Click the button below to download HitmanPro. Remember — the scan is free, so you have nothing to lose by checking your PC.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the file: “hitmanpro.exe” on 32-bit Windows, or “hitmanpro_x64.exe” on 64-bit Windows.
If a User Account Control pop-up asks whether HitmanPro can make changes to your device, click “Yes” to continue.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts
On the HitmanPro start screen, click “Next” to begin the system scan. No lengthy setup required — it goes straight to work.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
HitmanPro will now check your computer for malicious programs. This usually takes just a few minutes thanks to its cloud-based scanning.
Review the Results and Click “Next”
When the scan is done, HitmanPro will show you everything it found. Click “Next” to remove the detected threats.
Click “Activate Free License”
To remove the malicious files, click the “Activate free license” button. This starts your free 30-day trial — no payment details needed — and unlocks the full cleanup.
When the removal is complete, HitmanPro will show a summary of everything it cleaned. Click Next, then click Reboot if prompted. If there’s no reboot prompt, just click Close — your PC is clean.
STEP 5: Use AdwCleaner to remove adware and malicious browser policies
In this final step, we will use AdwCleaner to remove the malicious browser policies that were set by browser hijackers on your computer and delete malicious browser extensions.
AdwCleaner is a free on-demand scanner that specializes in adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted toolbars — the exact threats that mainstream antivirus programs often miss. It also includes tools that repair the damage malware leaves behind, like hijacked browser settings and malicious policies. It’s a quick scan that’s well worth running.
Download AdwCleaner
Click the button below to download AdwCleaner — it’s free, portable, and requires no installation.
Open your Downloads folder and double-click the file named “adwcleaner_x.x.x.exe“. There’s no installation — the program starts right away.
If Windows asks whether you want to allow AdwCleaner to run, click “Yes“. When the license agreement appears, click I agree to continue.
Enable “Reset Chrome policies”
This setting removes malicious browser policies — a trick malware uses to lock your browser settings so you can’t change them back. Click “Settings” on the left side of the window, then turn on “Reset Chrome policies“.
Start the Scan
Click “Dashboard” on the left side of the window, then click the “Scan” button.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
AdwCleaner will now check your computer for adware and other malware. This usually takes only a few minutes — it’s one of the fastest scanners around.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan finishes, AdwCleaner will list everything it found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the malicious items at once.
Click “Continue” to Finish the Cleanup
Save any open work first — AdwCleaner needs to close your open programs before it can clean. When you’re ready, click the “Continue” button.
AdwCleaner will now delete all detected malware from your computer. If it asks you to restart your PC, allow it — your computer will be clean when you log back in.
That’s it — your Windows computer is now clean. The unwanted apps, adware, and any other malware have been removed.
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:
Profiles are used by IT admins in businesses to control the behavior of their Macs. These profiles can configure a Mac to do many different things, some of which are not otherwise possible. When it comes to home users, adware and browser hijackers are using the configuration profile to prevent users from removing malicious programs from the computer. This also prevents the user from changing that behavior in the browser’s settings.
In this first step, we will check your computer to see if any configuration profiles are installed. To do this, follow the below steps:
Open “System Settings”
From the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of the screen, select System Settings. (On macOS Monterey and earlier, this is called System Preferences.)
Look for “Profiles”
In the System Settings window, search for Profiles — on newer macOS versions you’ll find it under Privacy & Security, or you can type “Profiles” in the search box.
No Profiles section? Good news — that means no profiles are installed on your Mac, which is completely normal. Skip ahead to the next step of this guide.
Remove the malicious profiles
Malware uses configuration profiles to lock your browser settings — forcing a fake search engine or homepage on you and preventing you from changing it back. If you see a profile you don’t recognize (and your Mac isn’t managed by your workplace or school), select it, press the − (minus) button, and click Remove to confirm.
STEP 2: Delete malicious apps
In this second step, we will try to identify and remove any malicious apps and files that might be installed on your computer. Sometimes redirects or adware programs can have usable Uninstall entries that can be used to remove these programs.
Quit the malicious programs
Check the Apple menu bar in the top-right corner of your screen. If you see an icon you don’t recognize, click it and select Quit. This stops the malware from running so it can’t interfere while we remove it.
Open “Finder”
Click the Finder icon in your dock.
Click on “Applications”
In the Finder sidebar, click “Applications“.
Find and remove the malicious app
Scroll through the list of installed apps and look for anything suspicious — an app you don’t remember installing, or one with a strange or generic name. When you find it, right-click it and select “Move to Trash“.
Some known malicious programs to look for: SearchMine, TakeFresh, TopResults, FeedBack, ApplicationEvents, GeneralOpen, PowerLog, MessengerNow, ImagePrime, GeneralNetSearch, Reading Cursors, GlobalTechSearch, PDFOnline-express, See Scenic Elf, MatchKnowledge, Easy Speedtest, and WebDiscover. The names change constantly, though — so treat any app you can’t account for as suspect.
Empty the Trash
Right-click the Trash icon in your dock and select “Empty Trash“. This permanently deletes the malicious app you just removed — until you do this, the malware is still on your Mac.
Find and remove the malicious files
Malware on Mac uses launch agents and launch daemons — small files that automatically restart the malware every time you boot your Mac. We’ll check the four folders where they hide:
Click the desktop to make sure you’re in Finder, then open the “Go” menu and click “Go to Folder“.
Copy and paste each of the paths below into the window, one at a time, and click Go after each:
/Library/LaunchAgents
~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/Application Support
/Library/LaunchDaemons
In each folder, look for suspicious .plist files — typically named after the malware or with odd, random-looking names. Some known examples: “com.adobe.fpsaud.plist”, “installmac.AppRemoval.plist”, “myppes.download.plist”, “mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist”, and “com.myppes.net-preferences.plist”. When you find a malicious file, move it to the Trash — then empty the Trash again when you’re done.
Be careful: these folders also contain files belonging to legitimate apps — especially /Library/Application Support, where programs like Adobe, Google, and Microsoft store their data. Only delete files you’re confident are malicious. If you’re unsure about a file, search its exact name online first — or skip it; the Malwarebytes scan in the next step will catch what you miss.
STEP 3: Reset browsers back to default settings
In this third step, we will remove spam push notifications and malicious extensions, and change to default any settings that might have been changed by malware. For each browser that you have installed on your computer, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps to reset that browser.
Safari BrowserChrome for Mac BrowserFirefox for Mac Browser
Remove malicious extensions and settings from Safari
To remove malware from Safari we will check if there are any malicious extensions installed on your browser and what settings have been changed by this malicious program.
Go to Safari’s “Preferences”.
On the menu bar, click the “Safari” menu and select “Preferences”.
Check Homepage.
This will open a new window with your Safari preferences, opened to the “General” tab. Some browser hijackers may change your default homepage, so in the Homepage field make sure it’s a web page you want to use as your start-up page.
Click “Extensions”
Next, click on the “Extensions” tab.
Find and uninstall malicious extensions.
The “Extensions” screen will be displayed with a list of all the extensions installed on Safari. Look out for any suspicious browser extension that could be behind all the drama – anything you don’t remember downloading or that doesn’t sound like a genuine extension. By default, there are no extensions installed on Safari so it’s safe to remove an extension
Remove spam notifications ads
Click Preferences, click Websites, then click Notifications. Deselect “Allow websites to ask for permission to send push notifications”.
Remove all data stored by websites on your computer.
In the Safari menu, choose “Preferences…”, select “Privacy” at the top of the new window that appears, and then click the “Manage Website Data” button.
In the next dialog box, click “Remove All“. It will ask you if you are sure you want to remove all data stored by websites on your computer. Select “Remove Now” to clear data that could be used to track your browsing.
Empty Safari Caches.
From your Safari menu bar, click Safari and select Preferences, then select the Advanced tab. Enable the checkbox to “Show Develop menu in menu bar“.
From the menu bar select Develop, then click on Empty Caches as seen in the image below.
Remove malware from Chrome for Mac
To remove malware from Chrome for Mac we will reset the browser settings to their default. Doing these steps will erase all configuration information from Chrome such as your home page, tab settings, saved form information, browsing history, and cookies. This process will also disable any installed extensions. All of your bookmarks, though, will be preserved.
Click on the three dots at the top right and go to Settings.
Click on Chrome’s main menu button, represented by three dots at the top right corner. Now click on the menu option labeled Settings as shown by the arrow in the picture below, which will open the basic settings screen.
In the left sidebar, click on the “Reset and Cleanup” option.
In the left sidebar, click on “Reset and clean up“.
Click “Reset settings to their original defaults”.
Now click on the “Reset settings to their original defaults”. link as shown in the image below.
Click “Reset Settings” button.
A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, click on the “Reset Settings” button.
(Optional) Reset Chrome Data Sync.
In case a malicious extension reinstalls itself even after performing a browser reset, you have an additional option to reset the data sync for your browser. To do this, navigate to chrome.google.com/sync and click on the Clear Data button.
Remove malware from Firefox for Mac
To remove malware from Firefox for Mac we will reset the browser settings to its default. The reset feature fixes many issues by restoring Firefox to its factory default state while saving your essential information like bookmarks, passwords, web form auto-fill information, browsing history, and open tabs.
Go to the “Help” menu.
Click on Firefox’s main menu button, represented by three horizontal lines. When the drop-down menu appears, select the option labeled “Help“.
Click “Troubleshooting Information”.
Next click on the “Troubleshooting Information” option as indicated by the arrow in the image below. This will bring you to a Troubleshooting page.
Click on “Refresh Firefox”
Click the “Refresh Firefox” button in the upper-right corner of the “Troubleshooting Information” page.
Confirm.
To continue, click on the “Refresh Firefox” button in the new confirmation window that opens.
Click on “Finish”.
Firefox will close itself and will revert to its default settings. When it’s done, a window will list the information that was imported. Click on the “Finish“.
Your old Firefox profile will be placed on your desktop in a folder named “Old Firefox Data“. If the reset didn’t fix your problem you can restore some of the information not saved by copying files to the new profile that was created. If you don’t need this folder any longer, you should delete it as it contains sensitive information.
STEP 4: Run a scan with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
In this final step, we will scan the computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to find and remove any malicious programs that might be installed on your Mac.
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
That’s it — your Mac is now clean. The unwanted apps, adware, and any other malware have been removed.
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.
Remove Unwanted Apps and Malware from Android
Remove Unwanted Apps and Malware from Android
To remove unwanted apps and malware from your Android phone or tablet, follow these steps:
In this first step, we will check if any malicious apps are installed on your phone. Sometimes browser hijackers or adware apps can have usable Uninstall entries that can be used to remove these apps.
Open the “Settings” menu.
Tap on the “Settings” app from your phone menu or home screen.
Tap on “Apps”.
When the “Settings” menu opens, tap on “Apps” (or “App Manager”) to see all the installed applications on your phone.
Find the malicious app.
The “Apps” screen will be displayed with a list of all the applications that are installed on your phone. Scroll through the list and look out for any suspicious app that could be behind all the drama – anything you don’t remember downloading or that doesn’t sound like a genuine program. Most often, cyber criminals hide malware inside video or photo editing apps, weather apps, and camera apps.
Uninstall the malicious app
When you find a suspicious or malicious app, tap on it to uninstall it. This won’t start the app but will open up the app details screen. If the app is currently running press the “Force stop” button, then tap on “Uninstall”.
A confirmation dialog should be displayed to confirm you want to uninstall the app, tap on “OK” to remove the malicious app from your phone.
STEP 2: Reset browsers back to default settings
In this second step, we will reset your browser to its default settings to remove spam notifications, unwated search redirects, and restore its factory settings
Resetting the browser settings to their default it’s an easy task on Windows or Mac computers; however, when it comes to Android, this can’t be done directly because it’s not an option built-in into the browser settings. Restoring the browser settings on Android can be done by clearing the application data. This will remove all the cookies, cache, and other site settings that may have been saved. So let’s see how we can restore your browser to its factory settings.
Chrome for AndroidFirefoxOperaSamsung Internet BrowserMicrosoft Edge
Remove malware from Chrome for Android
To reset Chrome for Android to its default settings, follow the below steps:
Open the “Settings” menu.
Tap on the “Settings” app from your phone menu or home screen.
Tap on “Apps”.
When the “Settings” menu opens, tap on “Apps” (or “App Manager”) to see all the installed applications on your phone.
Find and tap on Chrome.
The “Apps” screen will be displayed with a list of all the apps installed on your phone. Scroll through the list until you find the Chrome app, then tap on it to open the app’s details.
Tap “Storage”.
When Chrome’s app info menu is displayed, tap on “Storage“.
Tap “Manage Space”.
Under the storage settings, you will get two options — Manage Space and Clear Cache. Tap on “Manage Space“.
Tap “Clear all data”.
Tap “Clear all data” to delete all Chrome’s data including accounts, bookmarks, and your settings to reset the default settings.
Confirm by tapping “Ok”.
A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, tap “Ok“.
Remove malware from Firefox for Android
To reset Firefox for Android to its default settings, follow the below steps:
Open the “Settings” menu.
Tap on the “Settings” app from your phone menu or home screen.
Tap on “Apps”.
When the “Settings” menu opens, tap on “Apps” (or “App Manager”) to see all the installed applications on your phone.
Find and tap on Firefox.
The “Apps” screen will be displayed with a list of all the apps installed on your phone. Scroll through the list until you find the Firefox app, then tap on it to open the app’s details.
Tap “Storage”.
When Firefox’s app info menu is displayed, tap on “Storage“.
Tap “Manage Space”.
Under the storage settings, you will get two options — Manage Space and Clear Cache. Tap on “Manage Space“.
Tap “Clear all data”.
Tap “Clear all data” to delete all Firefox data including accounts, bookmarks, and your settings to reset the default settings.
Confirm by tapping “Ok”.
A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, tap “Ok“.
Remove malware from the Opera browser
To reset the Opera browser to its default settings, follow the below steps:
Open the “Settings” menu.
Tap on the “Settings” app from your phone menu or home screen.
Tap on “Apps”.
When the “Settings” menu opens, tap on “Apps” (or “App Manager”) to see all the installed applications on your phone.
Find and tap on Opera.
The “Apps” screen will be displayed with a list of all the apps installed on your phone. Scroll through the list until you find the Opera app, then tap on it to open the app’s details.
Tap “Storage”.
When Opera’s app info menu is displayed, tap on “Storage“.
Tap “Manage Space”.
Under the storage settings, you will get two options — Manage Space and Clear Cache. Tap on “Manage Space“.
Tap “Clear all data”.
Tap “Clear all data” to delete all Opera’s data including accounts, bookmarks, and your settings to reset the default settings.
Confirm by tapping “Ok”.
A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, tap “Ok“.
Remove malware from Samsung Internet Browser
To reset the Samsung Internet Browser to its default settings, follow the below steps:
Open the “Settings” menu.
Tap on the “Settings” app from your phone menu or home screen.
Tap on “Apps”.
When the “Settings” menu opens, tap on “Apps” (or “App Manager”) to see all the installed applications on your phone.
Find and tap on Samsung Internet Browser.
The “Apps” screen will be displayed with a list of all the apps installed on your phone. Scroll through the list until you find the Samsung Internet Browser app, then tap on it to open the app’s details.
Tap “Storage”.
When the Samsung Internet Browser’s app info menu is displayed, tap on “Storage“.
Tap “Manage Space”.
Under the storage settings, you will get two options — Manage Space and Clear Cache. Tap on “Manage Space“.
Tap “Clear all data”.
Tap “Clear all data” to delete all Samsung Internet Browser’s data including accounts, bookmarks, and your settings to reset the default settings.
Confirm by tapping “Ok”.
A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, tap “Ok“.
Remove malware from Microsoft Edge for Android
To reset the Microsoft Edge for Android to its default settings, follow the below steps:
Open the “Settings” menu.
Tap on the “Settings” app from your phone menu or home screen.
Tap on “Apps”.
When the “Settings” menu opens, tap on “Apps” (or “App Manager”) to see all the installed applications on your phone.
Find and tap on Microsoft Edge.
The “Apps” screen will be displayed with a list of all the apps installed on your phone. Scroll through the list until you find the Microsoft Edge app, then tap on it to open the app’s details.
Tap “Storage”.
When the Microsoft Edge’s app info menu is displayed, tap on “Storage“.
Tap “Manage Space”.
Under the storage settings, you will get two options — Manage Space and Clear Cache. Tap on “Manage Space“.
Tap “Clear all data”.
Tap “Clear all data” to delete all Microsoft Edge’s data including accounts, bookmarks, and your settings to reset the default settings.
Confirm by tapping “Ok”.
A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, tap “Ok“.
STEP 3: Use Malwarebytes for Android to remove malicious apps
In this final step, we will install Malwarebytes for Android to scan and remove malicious apps from your phone or tablet.
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.
That’s it — your Android device is now clean. The malicious apps, adware, and browser redirects have been removed.
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.
First, we’ll clean Safari using the built-in “Clear History and Website Data” feature. This removes your browsing history, cookies, and cached data — including the stored data that scam sites use to keep showing you pop-ups and redirects. Don’t worry: this won’t delete your photos, apps, or saved passwords.
Don’t tap anything inside the scam page or pop-up — the buttons are designed to trick you. Instead, tap the tabs icon in the lower-right corner of Safari, as shown below.
Tap the X on the malicious tab (or swipe it up) to close it safely.
Open the Settings app.
Turn on Airplane Mode. This temporarily disconnects your iPhone from the internet, so the scam site can’t load anything while we clean up. We’ll turn it back off at the end.
Scroll down and tap Safari.
Tap Clear History and Website Data.
Confirm by tapping “Clear History and Data” in the pop-up.
While you’re still in Safari settings, turn on Block Pop-ups and Fraudulent Website Warning. These two switches stop most scam pages before they can even load.
Tap Settings in the upper-left corner to return to the main Settings menu.
Turn Airplane Mode back off to reconnect your iPhone to the internet.
STEP 2: Delete unwanted apps
Next, we’ll remove any suspicious apps from your iPhone. If a shady website redirected you to the App Store and you installed an app — or you spot an app you don’t remember downloading — delete it now:
On the home screen, tap and hold the unwanted app’s icon until the icons start to wiggle.
Tap the minus (–) badge in the corner of the app icon, then tap Delete App. (On older iOS versions, this badge appears as an “X”.)
Confirm by tapping “Delete“.
That’s it — your iPhone is now clean and safe to use.
To stop these scam pages from coming back, we recommend installing an ad blocker like AdGuard. It blocks the malicious ads and redirects that cause these pop-ups in the first place.
Still having issues after completing these steps? Try one of the following:
The “Apple Security Alert Payment Authorization” text about a $143.95 Apple Pay charge at “Apple Store – CA” is designed to scare you into calling a fake support number, such as +1 833-808-4962, so scammers can steal your account access or your money.
Treat the text as bait.
If you are concerned about a real charge, verify it through your Wallet, your bank, and your Apple account using official channels. If you already engaged, focus on securing your Apple ID, protecting your payment methods, and removing anything you installed.
These scams succeed when people rush. Slow down, verify through trusted sources, and you will usually stop the attack before it starts.
FAQ
Is the “Apple Store Payment Authorization” text real?
In most cases, no. It is typically a fake security alert designed to push you to call a fraudulent “Apple Support” phone number. If you are concerned, verify activity only through the Wallet app, your bank or card issuer, and your Apple account purchase history using official channels.
What should I do if I received this text but did not respond?
Do not call the number, do not reply, and do not click anything. Delete the message, report it as spam or junk in your messaging app, and check your bank or card app for any real pending charges. If everything looks normal, you are likely fine.
Why does the message say the payment is “pending verification”?
That phrase is meant to create urgency and make you feel there is a small window to act. Scammers use it to rush you into calling before you stop and verify the claim independently.
What happens if I call the number in the text?
You reach scammers impersonating Apple Support. They will try to get personal details, your Apple ID login information, or a real Apple verification code. They may also attempt to collect card details or pressure you into sending money through irreversible methods.
If Apple sends me a code, should I ever read it to someone on the phone?
No. Apple ID verification codes and bank one-time passcodes should never be shared with anyone. If someone asks for a code to “secure” your account or “stop” a charge, treat it as a scam.
Can scammers really take over my Apple ID with a code?
Yes. If a scammer initiates a login or password reset and you provide the verification code, they can potentially sign in, change security settings, and lock you out.
How can I safely check whether a charge is real?
Use trusted sources:
Open your bank or card issuer app to view pending and posted transactions
Check the Wallet app for recent Apple Pay activity
Review your Apple purchase history in your Apple account If you still need help, contact Apple using the official Support app or by navigating to Apple’s official support site yourself.
I shared my Apple ID email address. Is that enough for them to hack me?
Not by itself, but it increases risk. Scammers can use it for targeted phishing, password reset attempts, and social engineering. Change your Apple ID password if you feel unsure, and make sure two-factor authentication is enabled.
I shared a verification code. What should I do right now?
Act immediately:
Change your Apple ID password
Review trusted devices and trusted phone numbers on your Apple ID
Sign out of any devices you do not recognize
Check your payment methods and recent transactions If you cannot access your account, start Apple’s official account recovery process.
I gave them my card number. What should I do?
Call your card issuer immediately, report the card as compromised, and request a replacement. Ask them to review recent activity and block any suspicious charges. Monitor your accounts closely for the next few weeks.
The text included a specific amount and an Apple Store location. Does that mean it is legitimate?
No. Scammers routinely use believable details like $143.95 and “Apple Store – CA” to make the message feel authentic. The presence of details does not prove legitimacy.
Can Apple block a charge if I call them?
Apple can help with account security issues, but you should never call a number provided in an unexpected text. If you need Apple support, use the official Support app or navigate to Apple’s official support channels yourself.
Why am I getting these Apple scam texts if I do not even use Apple Pay?
Scammers send texts in bulk to huge lists of numbers. They do not know who uses Apple Pay. They rely on volume and on a subset of recipients panicking and calling.
Will blocking the number stop the scams?
It helps, but it will not fully stop them. Scammers rotate phone numbers constantly. Your best protection is recognizing the pattern and refusing to engage.
How do I report these messages?
You can:
Mark the message as spam or junk in your messaging app
Report it to your mobile carrier (many carriers support forwarding spam texts)
Report it to relevant consumer fraud reporting channels in your country If you lost money, also report it to your bank or card issuer right away.
What is the simplest way to avoid scams like this in the future?
Never use contact details provided in an unexpected alert message. If you are worried, open your official apps (Wallet, bank app) and type official support addresses yourself. That single habit prevents most “support impersonation” scams.
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.
Remove Unwanted Apps and Malware from Windows
Remove Unwanted Apps and Malware from Windows
Remove Unwanted Apps and Malware from Mac
Remove Unwanted Apps and Malware from Android
Didn’t find any suspicious programs? That’s fine — not all infections install visible apps. Just continue with the next step in this guide.
Didn’t find any suspicious programs? That’s fine — not all infections install visible apps. Just continue with the next step in this guide.
No Profiles section? Good news — that means no profiles are installed on your Mac, which is completely normal. Skip ahead to the next step of this guide.
