AppleCare+ is a valuable service that provides extended warranty coverage and technical support for Apple products. Unfortunately, scammers are aware of this and have created fake AppleCare+ websites and phone numbers to steal money from unsuspecting users.
How the Scam Works
Scammers typically use two methods to target Mac users:
- Phishing
Ads: Scammers purchase Google Ads to display fake AppleCare+ support
links at the top of search results. These ads are designed to look like
legitimate Apple results. When users click on these ads, they are
redirected to a fake AppleCare+ customer service page.
- Fake
Websites: Scammers create fake websites that mimic the look and feel
of the real Apple website. These websites often contain fake AppleCare+
support phone numbers.
Once a user reaches a fake AppleCare+ page, they may be
prompted to call a toll-free number. If the user calls the number, they will be
connected to a scammer who will impersonate an Apple representative. The
scammer will then use social engineering tactics to try to convince the user to
send them money or provide personal information.
How to Avoid Fake AppleCare+ Scams
There are a few things you and your employees can do to
avoid falling victim to a fake AppleCare+ scam:
- Be
Wary of Unsolicited Calls or Emails: Apple will not contact you out of
the blue to offer AppleCare+ support.
- Do
Not Click on Links in Unsolicited Emails or Text Messages: If you
receive an email or text message that appears to be from Apple, do not
click on any links in the message. Instead, go to the Apple website
directly by typing [invalid URL removed] into your web browser.
- Verify
Phone Numbers: If you need to contact AppleCare+ support, look up the
phone number on the Apple website. Do not call phone numbers that you find
in search results or on third-party websites.
- Do
Not Give Out Personal Information or Money Over the Phone: AppleCare+
representatives will never ask you to send them money or provide personal
information over the phone.
By following these tips, you and your employees can help to avoid falling victim to fake AppleCare+ scams.
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