Phone scammers are at it again this time claiming to be from Apple support. The latest Apple phone scam involves sending an automated message to potential victims that warns that their iCloud account has been hacked and will be “terminated” if they do not speak with a support representative. If the actual recording wasn’t so cheesy-sounding, it would definitely strike fear in the hearts of account holders. After all, precious photos, song libraries, movies, contacts, calendars – basically a huge chunk of your life – are backed up to iCloud.
Once a victim answers the call, the automated message instructs them to press “1” to speak with Apple support. Live “support” then asks for personal information and credentials to log into their Apple accounts. Some victims have been asked to pay a fee to have antivirus software installed on their devices. But, as you can guess, it’s actually malware that is being loaded on their gadgets.
What you need to do when you get one of these prerecorded messages is HANG UP! Blocking the number won’t keep the fraudsters from calling you back, so you need to be prepared to receive several more attempts to trick you into handing over your personal information. Again, just hang up the phone.
Remember, Microsoft and Apple will never call you to warn of a security issue. Be sure to tell your friends and family about this latest phone scam and instruct them to hang up if “Apple support” gives them a ringy dingy.