Scam text about Apple Pay suspension; exposed info?

Yes it is a scam. What you did by calling them is let them know that you are susceptible for further scam messages like that and others. You may even get a follow up message about that specific call you made.

The case number is likely fake although can be used when responding to an email to tie that email address to the phone number you used to return the call. Messages can also be sent to an email address where that could be done. And it can also be used to identify the fake message that was sent to you so they know how to respond. They can use the same phone number to call and the case number identifies one of many scam types they are using.

Your phone number has now become more valuable to sell to other scammers as you have been "marked" with the return call. Luckily they did not answer as the next step is to persuade you into giving them more information, including pretending to contact your bank to cancel those charges.

In the future, never call a number in an email/message or click a link and provide any information. Treat any communication through email/message as information only where any follow up is done by known contacts that are NOT given in that communication. That is true whether it is from Apple, a Bank, Government agency, or any other business.

Apple never calls to verify Apple Pay payments. That’s a phishing attempt from scammers and it’s literally been reported 100’s of times if not 1000’s. 

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.

Identify legitimate emails from the App Store or iTunes Store.

FTC Complaint Assistant

FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center

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

Thank you for reaching out. 🤗

The text message you received was a scam.

Simply block, report and delete the message.

Here is the exact phrase that most scammers use: "We have noticed some unusual activity", and in your case, the scammers used "Apple Pay has suspended a payment pending confirmation" in an attempt to fool you into believing their scam.

Never click any links or call phony phone numbers they provide!

🛑 Apple will never send you a text message about Pay‼️⚠️

Important: If you receive a suspicious email or SMS text message that looks like it’s supposed to be from Apple, please email it to reportphishing@apple.com.

Learn how to:

• Recognize and avoid social engineering schemes including phishing messages, phony support calls and other scams.
• Identify legitimate emails from the App Store or iTunes Store.

Good luck! 👋🏼😉

Smiliñ 😎 Brian | Community Volunteer