Apple text scam: is that “Apple ID locked” message real?
Editorially reviewed · Last updated September 8, 2026
Yes — this is a scam. Apple doesn't text you a link to “verify” or “unlock” your Apple ID.
Exhibit · Text message
Other versions you might get: “Your iCloud storage is full — confirm payment,” “a new device signed into your Apple ID,” “your Apple ID was used to buy an app — cancel here,” or an iMessage from a look-alike “Apple Support.” Same lock-and-link play. The email version is the Apple ID email scam; the payment version is the Apple Pay text scam.
What to do right now
- Don't tap the link or enter your Apple ID. Don't reply — even “STOP” confirms your number is live.
- Check the real way. Open Settings on your iPhone (your name is at the top) or type appleid.apple.com yourself. If there were a real issue, it would show there.
- If you already entered your Apple ID password: change it immediately at appleid.apple.com, turn on or verify two-factor authentication, and review your devices and Apple Pay. If you entered card details, call your bank.
- Report it. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) and to Apple at reportphishing@apple.com, 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
Is the “Apple ID has been locked” text a scam?
I tapped the link and entered my Apple ID password — what now?
How can I tell a real Apple message from a fake one?
How do I report a fake Apple text?
Related scams
Apple Pay text scam: is that message real?
Got a text about an Apple Pay charge, locked account, or payment you didn't make? Here's the verdict and exactly 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?
A pop-up says your iPhone or Mac is infected and to call Apple Support now? The verdict: it's a scam. Here's what it is and exactly what to do.
Sources
- 01Recognize and avoid phishing messages, fake support calls, and other scams— Apple
- 02How to recognize and report spam text messages— Federal Trade Commission
- 03How to recognize and avoid phishing scams— Federal Trade Commission
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.