A text scam is targeting Apple Pay users, claiming that $8,250 has already been charged and another $8,250 will be charged in 35 minutes. The scammer claims that the user’s contactless spending limit has been “crushed” to $0 and that the second transaction will “auto-approve” in 35 minutes.

Red Flags in the Scam

The message contains several red flags, including a sense of urgency, dramatic wording, and a request to call a phone number to “verbally kill” the pending charge. The message also claims to be from “Apple Pay Account Services” but does not provide any official Apple support channel.

The scammer’s goal is to create panic and push the user into calling the provided phone number, where they can take control of the conversation and potentially steal sensitive information. Users are advised not to call the number and instead check their account through trusted channels, such as the Wallet app or their bank’s official app.

How to Protect Yourself

To protect yourself from such scams, it’s essential to be cautious when receiving unexpected messages, especially those that create a sense of urgency. Never call a phone number provided in a suspicious message, and always verify the authenticity of the message through official channels.

Apple recommends emailing screenshots of suspicious Apple text messages to its phishing address and reporting junk messages directly inside the Messages app. Users can also take steps to secure their accounts, such as setting up bank alerts, strengthening account logins, and protecting their phone number.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.