Security Tip of the Week – This Fraud Alert is a Fake

This week, scammers are targeting Apple Pay users by sending an email that appears to be an official message from Apple. The email warns you that an expensive purchase was made using your Apple Pay account, but that the charge was blocked as being suspicious. It includes a phone number and states that you must call within 24 hours to confirm that the charge is actually fraudulent. If you don’t, Apple will supposedly allow the transaction to be charged to your account.

However, there wasn’t really a suspicious charge to your account. The email you received was sent by scammers who are trying to scare you! If you call the number listed in the email, a cybercriminal will answer. They will pretend to work for Apple Support and will request your Apple ID and personal information so they can “help” you. But if you give them these details, they will use them to gain access to your account!

Tips to Stay Safe

Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to this phishing scam:

• Remember, Apple will not require you to call a phone number to confirm fraudulent activity immediately. You should always be suspicious if you receive an unexpected email that instructs you to act quickly.
• Cybercriminals frequently impersonate well-known brands, such as Apple, to try and gain your trust. Always stop and think before you take action, even if the email looks official!
• If you have concerns about a purchase, never call a phone number in an email. Go to Apple’s official website and contact their customer service team.

Stop. Look. Think. And don’t be fooled.

Tips of the Week Brought to You By Our Partners at KnowBe4

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