Is this Apple text a scam?
Updated October 16, 2026 · 5 min read
Texts claiming your Apple Account is locked, your iCloud storage is full or a purchase needs confirming usually lead to a fake sign-in page. Apple’s advice is to presume an unexpected message asking for personal information is a scam, and not follow links in it. Here is how to check and report it.
The short answer
Apple says that if you’re suspicious about an unexpected message, call or request for personal information, it’s safer to presume it is a scam. Don’t follow links or open attachments in unsolicited messages. We can’t see your message, so no page can tell you for certain. If you’re unsure, don’t use the link: go to the company’s own app or website, or call a number you already trust.
Red flags Apple lists
- The sender’s phone number or email doesn’t match the company it claims to be.
- A link looks right but the web address doesn’t match the company’s real site.
- An unexpected request for personal information or a password.
- Phone calls claiming to be Apple Support: Apple’s advice is to hang up.
- Gift cards as payment. Apple has a page on gift card scams.
What to do now
- Don’t tap the link or reply.
- To check your account, open Settings on your iPhone, or go to Apple’s own site by typing the address yourself.
- To report a suspicious SMS that claims to be from Apple, email a screenshot to reportphishing@apple.com.
- In Messages, use Report Junk for iMessage spam and block the sender. You can’t report a message after you’ve replied to it.
- Forward the text to 7726 and report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov (US).
If you entered your password or card details
- Apple advises you to change your Apple Account password immediately.
- Contact your bank if you entered card details.
- Check your account’s signed-in devices and remove any you don’t recognise.
- Turn on two-factor authentication if it isn’t already on.
Check it again
You can also paste the message into our free scam text checker. It runs on your message and doesn’t store it.
Frequently asked questions
Does Apple text me that my account is locked?
Be sceptical. Apple advises against following links in unexpected messages. Check your account in Settings or on Apple’s own site, typing the address yourself.
Where do I report a fake Apple text?
Email a screenshot to reportphishing@apple.com. For iMessage spam, use Report Junk in Messages.
What if someone phones claiming to be Apple Support?
Apple’s advice is to hang up. Contact Apple yourself through its official support pages.