Scam checker · The Calm Tech

Is this Apple ID / iCloud “locked” email a scam?

An email or text says your Apple Account has been locked or suspended, and you must sign in to unlock it. It’s designed to scare you into handing over your password. Here’s how to tell.

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What this scam looks like

⚠️ Example of a scam message“Your Apple ID has been locked for security reasons. To unlock, verify your information within 24 hours: appleid-verify[.]support”

The tell-tale signs

A link to “verify” or “unlock” your account, with a deadline.
The sender or link isn’t apple.com (appleid-verify.support, icloud-secure.com, and the like).
It asks for your Apple password, or card and personal details.
Greeting is generic — “Dear Customer” rather than your name.

What to do

Don’t tap the link. Apple won’t email a link demanding you sign in to avoid being locked out.
Check for real: on your iPhone or iPad, open Settings and tap your name at the top — that’s where any genuine account issue shows.
Never type your Apple password into a page you reached from an email.
Delete it. If you entered your password, change it in Settings and turn on two-factor. Report to scamwatch.gov.au.

Not sure about a message you’ve got?

Check it free with the Tech Helper

Show it the message and it’ll tell you honestly whether it looks like a scam, and exactly what to do. Free, calm, and there’s a real person — me — behind it if you’re still unsure.

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The three rules that stop almost every scam

If they rush you, it’s a scam. Real companies never hurry you. "Act now", "your account will be locked today", "final notice" — that pressure is the tell.
Never use the door they give you. Don’t tap the link or ring the number in the message. Go in your own way — open the official app yourself, or ring the number on the back of your card.
Your codes are yours. Full stop. Those six-digit text codes are keys to your accounts. No genuine company will ever ask you to read one out.

Common questions

Does Apple email you to unlock your account?

Genuine account alerts appear on your device itself — in Settings under your name — not as an email link with a countdown. If you’re unsure, never use the email; open Settings on your device instead.

Been caught, or worried your details are out there? You’re not alone, and there’s no shame in it. Report a scam at scamwatch.gov.au, and for identity help call IDCARE free on 1800 595 160. And if you’d like a patient hand, leave your number and I’ll call you back.