Scam library · Texts · Email & phishing · Tech support
Apple ID locked text scam
'Apple ID: Your account has been locked due to suspicious activity. Verify now to avoid permanent suspension.' The message links to a page that looks exactly like Apple's sign-in.
Entering your Apple Account details gives scammers access to your iCloud photos, backups, and sometimes your payment methods.
What the message looks like
From: +1 (408) 555-0171
Apple ID: Your account has been temporarily locked for security reasons.
Verify your identity within 24 hours: apple-id-verify-support[.]com
How this scam works
Apple says it won't ask for your password or verification codes through calls, texts or email links. Scam messages often come from random numbers or email addresses.
Once scammers have your login, they may lock you out, use your account to buy apps, or wipe your devices through Find My.
Some versions call you pretending to be Apple Support.
If you're ever unsure, open the Settings app on your iPhone or go to account.apple.com yourself. Real account problems will show up there, and you never need a link from a text to fix them.
Scammers also send fake receipts for purchases you didn't make, hoping you'll click to cancel or call a number. Others send fake 'Find My' messages claiming your lost iPhone was found, to steal the passcode or Apple Account of a stolen device.
These messages can look convincing, with Apple's logo, fonts and even a case number. Some use iMessage so they appear alongside your real conversations. The design isn't the clue. The link and the request are.
Red flags
- Texts about your Apple ID from random numbers.
- Links that don't end in apple.com.
- 24-hour deadlines.
- Requests for your password or two-factor codes.
- Calls from 'Apple Support' you didn't request.
- Fake receipts urging you to cancel a purchase you didn't make.
How to tell it’s fake
- Go to Settings on your iPhone or account.apple.com directly.
- Check the link's domain carefully.
- Remember Apple won't call to ask for your code.
- If you get a text, don't tap the link. Open your iPhone's Settings and tap your name to see if Apple is really asking for anything.
What to do if you clicked, paid or shared info
Don’t panic, and don’t blame yourself. These scams are built by professionals. Act quickly, one step at a time.
If you clicked a link or called back
- Delete the message. Forward phishing emails to reportphishing@apple.com.
If you paid
- If you were charged, review purchases and contact Apple Support through the official app.
If you shared personal info, a password or a code
- If you entered your password, change it from your device and review trusted devices. Follow Apple's compromised account steps.
Where to report and get help (U.S.)
If a message seems legit and you’re still not sure, get a second opinion before you act. Reporting helps stop scammers, even if money can’t be recovered. If you are in danger, call 911.
- Your bank or card issuer
Call the number on the back of your card or on your statement, not one from the message. Ask them to stop or reverse the payment and to watch the account. - Federal Trade Commission (FTC) · ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Report the scam and get a step-by-step recovery plan. - FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) · ic3.gov
Report scams that happened online, especially if money was lost. Include phone numbers, websites and payment details. - AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline · aarp.org helpline
Free, for anyone of any age: trained volunteers help you sort out next steps. 877-908-3360, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern. - IdentityTheft.gov · IdentityTheft.gov
If you shared your Social Security number or someone opened accounts in your name.
How Gmork Scam Guard would warn you
Scam Guard in Chrome and Edge on your computer checks the pages you open from email and messages. It recognizes fake Apple sign-in pages and warns before you type your password. If an alert seems legit, get a scam expert's opinion first.
Scam Guard can miss things, so the checks above still matter. See what it warns about and what it keeps private.
Questions people ask
- Does Apple text you about locked accounts?
- Real account issues show in Settings. Be wary of texts with links.
- Where do I report Apple phishing?
- Forward emails to reportphishing@apple.com.
- I entered my password. What now?
- Change it right away and check your trusted devices.
- Can scammers wipe my iPhone?
- With your Apple Account they could use Find My, so secure it fast.
- Someone says they found my lost iPhone. Is it real?
- Be careful. Scammers send fake 'found' messages to trick owners into unlocking a stolen phone. Use Find My yourself and never share your passcode.