[Phish Alert] Apple Approval Notice
This article explains how a phishing SMS impersonates Apple by using a familiar billing-style message and fake support links to appear legitimate. It highlights that Apple rarely sends text alerts about account issues, and warns that scammers often try to redirect users to phone calls or fake support channels to steal credit card or account information.
Why this looks valid:
- Apple uses this format for text messages
- Has a real billing department link for Apple
Why this is phishing?
- Apple does not typically send text messages to alert users of account issues or suspicious activity.
- Attacker is attempting to get users to call them to gather credit card information.
- The sender is usually an email address or a random telephone number not associated with Apple.
- General Apple Support: 1‑800‑MY‑APPLE (1‑800‑692‑7753)
- Apple Care Support: 1‑800‑275‑2273
- Apple users are encouraged to forward suspicious texts or emails to Apple at reportphishing@apple.com.
Additional Notes
- Remember: Information Technology will never text you. We will also never request your password or Duo codes, ever.
- Information Technology will not ask you to verify accounts or submit passwords through unofficial forms or unexpected email links.
- Do you think you’ve fallen for a scam? Did you share personal information? Downloaded malicious content? Please contact the IT Service Desk.
- Use the Knowbe4 Phish Alert Button (PAB) to report malicious emails directly to the Information Security team for review. If you are not using the Gmail client please forward the email to phishfiles@montclair.edu.
Always use the “hover over” technique to check web links before clicking! For more security tips please visit the Phish Files!
- Published
