Many people have noticed a mysterious charge on their credit card statement from Apple iTunes with the message: APL*ITUNES.COM/BILL 866-712-7753 or something similar.
To be clear, this is a scam charge on your card.
In this article, we’ll explain what the Apple iTunes 866-712-7753 charge scam is and how to protect yourself.
What is the Apple iTunes 866-712-7753 charge scam?
The 866-712-7753 scam targets iTunes users and charges their credit card to make unauthorised purchases on the Apple App Store or iTunes.
It is quite easy to see that the phone number listed here is not a valid Apple customer support but a recording. This person called the number and heard “call Apple” before the conversation ended. Some people have reported that the voice tells them to visit another phishing website where the victim’s financial details are compromised.
Also read: USPSBP scam explained
How does the Apple iTunes 866-712-7753 charge scam work?
Apple iTunes 866-712-7753 scam works like this:
- First, a scammer gains or accesses your iTunes account by hacking or guessing your password or phishing your credentials. Or, you may have signed in on a different device and forgot.
- After hackers gain access to your account, they make purchases of apps, books, movies, and music from iTunes or the App Store.
- You will see a message on your registered mobile, and that some amount has been deducted from your account. If the amount is small, like a dollar or two, chances are you won’t even notice the amount, and the scam goes on for a long time without being detected.
Also read: How to identify phishing scams?
How can you prevent the 866-712-7753 scam?
To prevent this Apple iTunes 866-712-7753 charge scam from happening to you in the future, take the following steps:
- Regularly check your iTunes and App Store purchase history for any unauthorised transactions.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to your account.
- Contact your bank and block your card as soon as you get wind that you are being scammed.
- Keep a strong password for your bank account and Apple ID.
- Report the scam to the authorities, including the Federal Trade Commission and Internet Crime Complaint Centre.
In conclusion, this scam targets Apple device users after gaining access to their accounts. One interesting point to note is that the amount deducted is quite small, and hence, the victim usually ignores it. Thus, the scam persisted for a long time. To prevent this scam, regularly monitor your App Store, iTunes and bank account transactions and block your card.
Also read: What is the Venmo scam on Facebook Marketplace? Tips to stay safe
