Apple ID Locked or iCloud Suspended Scam: How to Spot Fake Apple Messages

Short answer: messages saying your Apple ID is locked, iCloud is suspended or Apple Pay needs "verifying" through a link are usually phishing. Do not tap the link or call the number in the message. Check your account in Settings on your iPhone or by typing appleid.apple.com yourself, and forward suspicious emails to reportphishing@apple.com.

Common fake Apple messages

• "Your Apple ID has been locked for security reasons. Verify here."
• "Your iCloud storage is full and your photos will be deleted. Pay now."
• "Apple Pay suspended. Confirm your card."
• Calls from "Apple Support" saying your account was hacked and asking for a code sent to your phone.

How to check if it is real

1. Open Settings and tap your name. Any real problem with your Apple Account shows there.
2. Or type appleid.apple.com into your browser yourself.
3. Never share a verification code that Apple sends you. Apple will not ask for it on the phone.

If you entered your password or card details

• Change your Apple Account password immediately from Settings.
• Check the devices signed in to your account and remove any you do not recognise.
• Call your bank if you entered card details.

Report it

Forward phishing emails to reportphishing@apple.com. In iMessage, use "Report Junk". In the UK, forward scam texts to 7726.

Related: Netflix payment failed scam, tech support pop-ups, the 6-digit code scam.