What it looks like
"Apple ID: Your account has been locked due to unusual sign-in activity. To avoid permanent suspension, verify your information within 24 hours: [link]"
An example. Real ones change their wording, amounts and names all the time.
How it works
Your Apple ID holds a lot: your photos, contacts, messages, saved passwords and the card you use for purchases. That makes it a prize for scammers. They send texts and emails that copy Apple's look and say the account is locked, hacked or about to be deleted.
The link leads to a fake Apple sign-in page that captures your email and password. Then it asks for the six digit code Apple sends to your phone, which lets them in. Other versions are phone calls from 'Apple Support', sometimes showing Apple's name on caller ID. The caller asks you to read them the code, or to tap Allow on a sign-in request so they can 'secure' your account.
It fools smart people because Apple really does send security alerts. But Apple says it will never ask for your password, device passcode or two-factor code, and will never ask you to approve a sign-in request for someone else. To check your account, look in Settings on your own iPhone or iPad.
Signs it is fake
- A message saying your Apple ID or iCloud is locked or will be deleted
- A link to 'verify' your account, or a phone number for 'Apple Support'
- A caller who asks for your password or a code, or asks you to tap Allow on a sign-in request
- A receipt for an app or subscription you never bought, with a number to call
- A request to pay with Apple gift cards to fix the problem
What to do
- Do not tap the link or call the number.
- On your iPhone or iPad, open Settings and tap your name to see your real account. Your subscriptions are listed there too.
- Never share a code that Apple sends you, and do not tap Allow on a sign-in request you did not start.
If you already clicked, called or paid
- Change your Apple ID password right away from your own device, and check the list of devices signed in to your account.
- If you shared card details or bought gift cards, call your bank or the card company.
- Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Being fooled is not your fault. These messages are made by professionals to look real. Acting quickly is what matters. See what to do if you paid a scammer.
Not sure about a message?
Forward it to Uncle at +1 208 214 0093, or send a screenshot. He tells you plainly what looks wrong. He never asks for passwords or codes, and he never texts first. How it works.
Worried about a parent? With the Family plan, you get a heads up when a likely scam reaches them.
More common scams
- Unpaid toll text
- Package delivery text
- Bank fraud alert text
- Amazon order or account text
- See all common scams
Written by the Textuncle team. Last updated October 3, 2026.
Text Uncle