Apple Pay text scam: is that message real?
Editorially reviewed · Last updated September 8, 2026
Yes — this is a scam. Apple doesn't text you links to “cancel” or “verify” an Apple Pay charge.
Exhibit · Text message
Other versions you might get: A text saying “Your Apple Pay has been suspended,” a code to “confirm” a payment you never made, or a fake refund for a charge that was “declined.”
Reported versions of this message
Each source below documented a text. Web addresses are defanged, and identifying values may be redacted; the remaining wording follows the source. Similar wording is a reason to check independently, not proof that two messages came from the same sender.
“Apple Approval Notice We have noticed that your Apple iCloud id was recently used at “APPLE STORE – CA” for $143.95, paid by Apple Pay Pre Authorization. Also some suspicious sign in request and apple pay activation request detected. That looks like suspicious to us. In order to maintain the security and privacy of your account we have placed those request on hold. Your Photos, Data, Bank Information and Cards are at risk. If NOT you? talk to an Apple Representative. Failing may lead to auto debit and charge will not be reversed. Call <phone number> immediately to cancel this charge.”
Documented by Trend Micro · April 2025 “An Apple Pay transaction of $157.53 at the Apple Store was detected. Call apple support now <phone number> If this is unauthorized.”
Documented by Trend Micro · April 2025 “INFO: Apple Security Alert Payment Authorization Alert Dear Apple User, An attempt to authorize a payment of $143.95 via Apple Pay at “Apple Store – CA” is currently pending verification. If you confirm this was you, no additional steps are required. If you did not attempt this transaction, please reach out to Apple Support at [phone number redacted]. Thank you for assisting us in protecting your account security. Support Center [phone number redacted]”
Documented by MyAntiSpyware · February 2026
What to do right now
- Don't tap the link or call any number in it. Don't reply — even “STOP” tells them the number is live.
- Check the real source yourself. Open Wallet on your iPhone to see actual Apple Pay activity, or sign in at apple.com by typing the address — your real charges live there, not in a text.
- If you already entered card or Apple ID details: change your Apple ID password, turn on two-factor, and call your bank to freeze or reissue the card.
- Report it. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), then file at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Delete the message.
Reduce the risk of another scam
Do not use the message’s link to check the claim. Open the real service yourself. If you paid or shared account details, start with what to do after a scam. Blocking and reporting can reduce unwanted contact, but they cannot stop every attempt or tell you how the sender found you.
● Public service · free steps first
Take the free protection steps first
A suspicious message does not tell us how someone found your details. If you shared personal information, start with the official recovery guidance. You can also freeze your credit for free.
- Freeze your credit — free at all three bureausRestricts access to your credit report for new credit applications. It does not protect existing accounts from misuse.
- Report it and get a recovery plan at IdentityTheft.govThe FTC walks you through exactly what to do next, for free.
Decide what protection you need
Start with the free controls above. Compare what a paid service would add only after deciding which problem remains.
No purchase needed. How we use evidence.
Frequently asked
Does Apple text you to cancel or confirm an Apple Pay charge?
The text says someone made an unauthorized Apple Pay charge — is it real?
I tapped the link and entered my Apple ID — what should I do now?
Related scams
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Got a text saying your Apple ID or iCloud has been locked and you must verify within 24 hours? Apple doesn't do that. Here's the verdict and what to do.
Apple ID email scam: is that “locked account” alert real?
Got an email saying your Apple ID was locked, suspended, or accessed from a new device? Here's the verdict and what to do.
Apple security alert scam: is that virus warning real?
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Sources
- 01Recognize and avoid social engineering schemes including phishing messages, phony support calls, and other scams— Apple
- 02How To Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams— Federal Trade Commission
- 03How To Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages— consumer.ftc.gov
- 04What To Do if You Were Scammed— consumer.ftc.gov
- 05How To Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams— consumer.ftc.gov
Pass it on
Help protect someone else
If this could have fooled you, it can fool someone you know — a parent, a friend, the family group chat. It's safe to forward, and stands on its own as a record for a bank or the police.