Apple iCloud Scam
Phishing in the Clouds
The latest scam involves fraudsters trying to piggyback on media reports related to a major breach of iCloud credentials. Fresh on the minds of consumers, the "breach" launched a phone scam preying on the fear, uncertainty and doubt; a classic approach indeed. But beware. Those calls alleging an iCloud account leak is more than likely a scam in the making.
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What You Should Know
Earlier this year (2017) there were some media reports of a potential iCloud security failure. Though quickly disproven by Apple, the reports made the unsolicited calls claiming to be from Apple much more credible. The scam can unfold in a variety of ways, but the end goal is the same. They try to get you to let them connect to your computer via a reverse screen share. Then, they claim to have scanned your computer, found malware, and ask for payment so they can "fix" your computer. In the process, they install adware and sometimes malware, as well as charge a high or recurring fee on your credit card or both.
This call also offers people to dial #2 to stop these calls; however, this is part of the scam! Once you've pressed #2, you've confirmed that you're available for more scamming in the future.
How YouMail can help stop Apple iCloud scams today
YouMail is the leading solution for getting rid of robocalls and we are proud that our customers are protected from scammers, spammers, and other unwanted callers. Best of all, it's a 100% free service available for everyone!
Here are a couple of REAL voicemails
left with YouMail customers.
We have noticed some suspicious activity with your iCloud ID. We have been getting the notification on our main server for the past few days. We seriously recommend you to call us on 1-888-320-8649. I repeat 1-888-320-8649. We request you not to use your computer before speaking to our certified technicians for help and support. Please press "1" to hang up or press "2" to speak with a technician.
We have noticed some suspicious activity with your iCloud ID. We have been getting the notification on our main server for the past few days. We seriously recommend you to call us on 1-844-467-8693. We request you not to use your computer or automatic devices before speaking to our certified technicians for help and support. Press "1" and if you wish to hang up press "2".
What you should do
Our advice is simple but effective. Don't answer calls from unknown numbers! If they've left a voicemail like we've described, just DELETE it. Did you answer the call? If so, keep in mind that Apple NEVER makes unsolicitied calls, in fact the Apple website notes this on it's phishing tips page: "If you get an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be from Apple, hang up and contact us directly." (Microsoft, Google, and others never place unsolicited calls, either.)
Our best advice
You can avoid all scams - really - just let all unknown callers go right to voicemail. Easily get more info on any number and decide whether to call them back or block them forever. Even see what others are saying or contribute to the YouMail Community Directory.