"You have been hacked" message on Safari, is it real?

So just now I was on safari and then I pressed the two squares that are connecting at the bottom right of my screen to exit out of the thing I’ve searched, and see this message from “Apple” so I clicked it and it put a two minute timer and said “you have been hacked, if you don’t download this app and connect VPN to your device all your photos and browsing history will be sent to all your contacts. The hackers will also get all your personal information and steal your identity” I don’t know if this is true or not so me being scared I downloaded the app and paid the subscription. Is it worth it? Or is this the hackers making me download and app and get my information like others have been saying….


[Re-titled by Moderator]

iPhone X

Posted on Jan 12, 2024 2:45 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 12, 2024 3:04 PM

Apple have recently issued this article:

About Apple threat notifications - Apple Support


Eg: says:

"Apple threat notifications will never ask you to click any links, open files, install apps or profiles, or provide your Apple ID password or verification code by email or on the phone.


To verify that an Apple threat notification is genuine, sign in to appleid.apple.com. If Apple sent you a threat notification, it will be clearly visible at the top of the page after you sign in".


You may also want to read through Apple support's article (link below)

Recognize and avoid phishing messages, phony support calls, and other scams - Apple Support

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 12, 2024 3:04 PM in response to Beenaomi7

Apple have recently issued this article:

About Apple threat notifications - Apple Support


Eg: says:

"Apple threat notifications will never ask you to click any links, open files, install apps or profiles, or provide your Apple ID password or verification code by email or on the phone.


To verify that an Apple threat notification is genuine, sign in to appleid.apple.com. If Apple sent you a threat notification, it will be clearly visible at the top of the page after you sign in".


You may also want to read through Apple support's article (link below)

Recognize and avoid phishing messages, phony support calls, and other scams - Apple Support

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

"You have been hacked" message on Safari, is it real?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.