Mar 6, 2017
The a-holes called early this morning several times before I finally picked up. A recorded message claimed it was Apple tech support informing me that unauthorized activity was detected on my account. Gave a number to call OR I could press 1 to speak to a tech now. I knew this was a scam immediately because they called a number that I rarely use - and definitely do not have associated with my Apple/iCloud accounts. But, I pressed 1 and a man with an Indian accent answered. Very clear English so I assume call was from the US. He said my Apple iCloud account had been accessed 11 times over the last two weeks from oversees. Asked if I was traveling abroad? No. He asked if I had access to a laptop or computer. If so, he could walk me through a few steps to secure my account. He had my first and last name. He started asking for more info - I cut him off and said I have no way of knowing if this is really apple, and not a scam. He said he could send an instant email from Apple support to verify. Then, he asked me to confirm my email - to which I responded - no way I'm giving you any information over the phone. If this is legit, then you should have my email. He said he had it but it was 'encrypted.' I said OK, just send the validation email and if I receive it, then you'll know it's correct. He started getting agitated. He said that only his supervisor could access the entire email and that I would have to be placed on a really long 5 minute hold. I said Ok. Throughout this call, I signed on to my iCloud account, changed the password and disconnected all of my devices. While I was updating the new password on my iPhone, iPads, and MacBook Pro, the phone disconnected after about 5 mins. I figured that 8-10 mins with me was time he couldn't spend trying to scam other people.
I will say that this was one of the more 'sophisticated' scams I've run into in a while. This loser sounded fairly competent. I follow one simple rule - if I didn't initiate the call, it is probably a scam. If you call ME and don't have MY info, it is definitely a scam. I don't even confirm information by phone when my bank calls me to try to upsell me on something. Can't trust anyone on the phone.