Urgent warning for iPhone users after devices targeted by new text scam

An urgent warning has been issued to iPhone users after tech experts discovered a new text message scam. Scammers this month used SMS phishing techniques to send messages that claimed to be from Apple.

Scammers posing as the tech giant invited users to visit a link regarding an “important request” for iCloud. American security firm Symantec discovered the cyber scam earlier this month.

It warned that the links would lead to fake websites designed to trick people into entering their Apple ID credentials. Symantec advised users to protect themselves with two-factor authentication and avoid clicking the links altogether.

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The company said: “These credentials are highly valued, providing control over devices, access to personal and financial information, and the potential for revenue from unauthorized purchases. Additionally, Apple’s strong brand reputation makes users more likely to trust deceptive messages that appear to come from Apple – making these targets even more attractive to cybercriminals.”

According to Symantec, one malicious text scam read: “Important Apple Request to iCloud: Visit signin(.)authen-connexion(.)info/iCloud to continue using your services.”

Symantec even found that scammers had added a CAPTCHA to the site to make it look legitimate—software designed to ensure bots weren’t using the site. Apple said on its support site that scammers can ask iPhone users to turn off security features like two-factor authentication.

“They will claim it is necessary to help stop an attack or allow you to regain control of your account,” the company said. “However, they are trying to trick you into lowering your security so they can launch their own attack. Apple will never ask you to disable any security feature on your device or account.”