New iPhone scam can empty bank accounts, experts warn — here’s how to protect your money

iPhone users are the target of a new scam.

The quickly spreading threat, detailed in a warning from data research site Consumer Affairs, uses messages — including fake “Apple Pay fraud alerts” — and high-pressure phone calls to trick victims into calling the scammers and giving away personal information with the goal of draining their bank accounts.

In one case, a victim reported receiving a text warning about a suspicious Apply Pay charge, urging her to call a number for help. When she did, she was connected with someone pretending to be an investigator.

She was convinced to withdraw $15,000 from her bank account — but a teller recognized the scam and told her to hang up the call.

The manipulative scammers use a sense of urgency and authority to take advantage of the fear that consumers have when presented with a suggestion of fraud, theft or legal trouble.

Typical alerts warn that a purchase was attempted or declined, an account is locked or under investigation, or immediate action is otherwise required.

Consumer Affairs warned that if potential victims call an attached phone number or click a provided link, they’ll be connected to someone who is impersonating Apple Support, a bank, or sometimes even law enforcement.

The scammer will claim your money is at risk and may have personal details about you that make it seem more legitimate, urging you to act immediately to “protect” your money.

In many cases, victims are then instructed to move money to a “safe” account, withdraw cash, or send funds via Apple Pay, Apple Cash or a gift card.

The ultimate goal is to get the victim to authorize a payment themselves, because once they do, “it’s often very difficult to recover,” Consumer Affairs warned, noting that does not send unsolicited texts asking to call support or provide sensitive information..

Experts noted that there are clear red flags to watch out for with these types of scams, such as unexpected messages about Apple Pay activity, requests to call a number, pressure to act immediately, instructions to move money or lie to the bank, or requests for codes, passwords or personal information.

If you receive a suspicious message, don’t click any links or call the number. Instead, check your bank or Apple by contacting them through their official channels and check Apple Pay activity directly on your own device.

If you think you’ve been targeted, stop transactions immediately and notify your bank or card issuer.