Apple "pre-authorization" text

My son received a text message today saying that his apple id has been triggered (case number provided) and a charge for the apple store in orlando was detected via apple pay pre-authorization. Multiple unauthorized sing in attempts and apple pay setup request from unknown devices has been flagged. It goes on to say if familiar no actions is required by if not familiar call apple support at 888-***-**89. He didn't know if this was a scam or if it was real. I'm always leary of calling the numbers on text or emails like this. Does anyone have any insight on this?


[Edited by Moderator]

Posted on Sep 11, 2025 10:42 AM

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Posted on Sep 11, 2025 10:50 AM

It is a scam. There is no charge that occurred on any of your payment methods. Apple would never send you any such text message and you should be leary calling any number in a text/email. In fact, I would go a step further and say never call a number in an email/message.

3 replies

Sep 11, 2025 11:04 AM in response to lauraponthieux

A case number is easily made up. An easy way to confirm is call 1-800-MY-APPLE.


Apple would never contact you. Your bank (issuer of card) would contract you. Banks do the exact opposite of the message you received. If they suspect fraud the transaction is stopped immediately. You have to call to verify the transaction, not call to stop the transaction. 


“Don't answer suspicious phone calls or messages claiming to be from Apple. Instead, contact Apple directly through our official support channels.”


”To report a suspicious SMS text message that looks like it's supposed to be from Apple, take a screenshot of the message and email the screenshot to reportphishing@apple.com.”


You can report phishing at these links and most importantly your local law enforcement.



Learn about how not to be a victim of Social Engineering.


Recognize and avoid social engineering schemes including phishing messages, phony support calls, and other scams - Apple Support

Apple "pre-authorization" text

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