Apple users are being targeted by a rapidly growing text message scam that attempts to trick them into divulging personal information and financial details, security experts warn. The scam, often referred to as the “Apple Billing Approval Notice” text scam, involves unsolicited messages claiming to detect unusual activity on an Apple ID and urging recipients to call a provided phone number immediately.
The phone number does not connect to Apple, but rather to a call center operated by scammers posing as Apple support representatives. These scammers then attempt to gain remote access to victims’ devices under the guise of providing refunds, removing malware, or securing their accounts. Once access is granted, they can steal personal data, install malicious software, or coerce victims into purchasing and sharing gift card codes. Reports indicate that over $35 million has been stolen in the United States alone through these text-based scams in recent years.
Apple states that Notice no subscription costs, sign-up fees, or per-transaction surcharges added by the company. The company provides resources for users to review their purchase history and manage billing information through its support website and the App Store. Users can request refunds for App Store and iTunes Store purchases, and can also report unfamiliar charges.
Victims of the scam report being pressured into providing sensitive information, including Apple ID passwords, security codes, and credit card details. Scammers often employ social engineering tactics to build trust and create a sense of urgency, making it tough for victims to recognize the deception. Security experts advise individuals to avoid clicking links or calling numbers provided in suspicious text messages, and to never grant remote access to their devices to unsolicited callers.
Apple offers several methods for users to check their account activity and verify charges. One option is to visit reportaproblem.apple.com and sign in with their Apple ID. Users can then search for specific charges by date or amount. Alternatively, they can contact Apple’s billing department directly using a known, official phone number.
The scam is particularly concerning since the text messages often appear legitimate, mimicking the language and formatting used by Apple in official communications. This makes it difficult for even tech-savvy users to distinguish between genuine alerts and fraudulent attempts. Apple advises users to be wary of any unsolicited requests for personal information or remote access to their devices.
As of February 20, 2026, Apple has not issued a public statement directly addressing the recent surge in reported scams, but continues to provide resources for users to protect their accounts and report suspicious activity. The company’s support website details how to identify legitimate communications from Apple and how to report phishing attempts.
