Tech support
Is the 'Apple ID locked' message a scam?
Quick answer
Yes. Apple does not send unsolicited texts or emails saying your Apple ID is locked, suspended, or compromised. The real Apple manages account issues inside your device's Settings or via appleid.apple.com. The 'locked Apple ID' message is one of the highest-volume phishing attacks in the world.
Red flags to look for
- Link goes to a domain that isn't apple.com (apple-support-id.com, appleid-verify.net, etc.)
- Asks you to 'verify your password' or 'reconfirm payment information' via a link
- Sender is not @apple.com (look at the full address, not the display name)
- Threatens account closure in 24–48 hours
- Asks you to read a verification code sent to your phone
Real examples
Text message
Apple Support: Your Apple ID has been locked due to unusual activity. Verify your identity here within 24 hours: appleid-secure.com
Likely Scam
The real domain is apple.com or appleid.apple.com — never appleid-secure.com or similar. Tapping the link leads to a fake login page that captures your Apple ID password.
Phone call
This is Apple Support. We've detected someone in Russia logging into your iCloud. To secure your account, please read the 6-digit code we just sent to your phone.
Likely Scam
Apple does not call about iCloud breaches. The code they're asking for is the 2FA code that lets THEM into your account. Never read a 2FA code to anyone who called you.
What to do
- Don't tap the link or read the code.
- If worried, check your Apple ID directly: Settings > [Your Name] on your iPhone, or appleid.apple.com in a browser you type yourself.
- Forward phishing emails to reportphishing@apple.com.
- Forward phishing texts to 7726 (SPAM).
- If you already entered your password on a fake site: immediately change it at appleid.apple.com and enable two-factor authentication.
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Why scammers use this approach
Almost everyone has an Apple ID, which makes this scam plausible to ~70% of recipients. A stolen Apple ID gives access to iCloud photos, contacts, payment methods, and Find My — extremely valuable to criminals.
Frequently asked questions
What does a real Apple security alert look like?
It appears as a notification on your Apple device itself, not as a text or email. Real alerts let you 'Review' from inside Settings.
I tapped the link but didn't enter anything. Am I safe?
Probably yes. Just tapping a link doesn't compromise your account. Don't return to the link, and don't tap it again.