Apple has issued a memo warning all users of mobile phones to stay alert against a potentially dangerous scam.
In a few seconds, your money will be in the possession of criminals if you are gullible.
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Scammers will ask you to hand over cash via Apple Gift Card.
You might think it impossible but becoming a target is actually quite easy.
This scam can be delivered via phone, text message or email on iPhone and Android.
Apple announced that “a number of scams have been perpetrated asking people to call and pay for various things, such as tax, hospital bills bail money, debt recovery, utility bills, etc.”
Gift cards are used in many scams.
“As the fraudsters are sometimes requesting codes from Apple Gift Cards, App Store & iTunes Gift Cards, or Apple Store Gift Cards, we want to make sure our customers are aware of these scams.”
Apple says that Gift Card Scams follow the same pattern.
The victim is typically called and told to “pay with an Apple Gift Card” in a panicked manner.
You’ll need to use the code found on the back of the card once you have purchased it.
It’s not a legitimate request.
This type of scam is extremely common, but it’s very easy to protect yourself.
Apple has said that you should never give the number on the Gift Card back to anyone you do not know.
Apple and the police will not be able to help you if you give the scammers your numbers. They’ll spend all the money as soon as they have it.
You’re safe if you don’t ever give out the number.
Apple warned that if you do not intend to purchase an Apple product, it is not a good idea to pay with an Apple Gift Card.
There’s never a situation where you will be asked to pay with these gift cards.
The numbers printed on the card’s back should not be given to people you do not know.
The FTC as well as your local law enforcement department should be notified immediately of any scams.
Apple Support is available online or you can call Apple on 1-800-275-2273 if you are in the US.
Don’t use contact details given in the original phone call asking for Gift Card payments – they are likely to be fraudulent.