New phone scam targets Apple customers
A nationwide scam is targeting Apple customers, claiming the target’s iCloud account has been hacked.
But it’s more advanced than a typical scam.
It uses what's known as number spoofing. Even though it's a scam, the number that shows up on the target’s phone can appear as the same number belong to an Apple store.
"People do fall for these scams,” FBI spokesperson Bridget Patton said. “It is easy to fall prey to something like that, especially when they legitimize it like that.”
FBI officials recommend people receiving these calls hang up and call their local Apple store.
The FBI said its own number has been spoofed for scams involving fake fines. Utility companies are also common examples, with callers often claiming the target's heat or electricity will be turned off without an immediate payment.
"There's generally some sort of urgency to get you to act, to get you to respond, to give them that (personal) information," Patton said.
The Better Business Bureau says the Apple scam started in March and has worked its way through different parts of the country.
"Don't react,” Patton said. “Don't take that sense of urgency and give your information out immediately."
The FBI has for reporting scams.
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