Portage, IN – Police in Portage are alerting residents this afternoon to a new phone and text scam targeting Apple device users. The warning follows a recent case involving a local senior who fell victim to the “Apple Pay Pre-Authorization” scam, according to the Portage Police Department (PPPD).
According to PPPD, victims receive a text message appearing to come from “Apple Support” or “Apple Security,” claiming there has been a suspicious purchase or login attempt. The message urges the recipient to call a listed phone number—often ending in “-2186”—to cancel the charge or secure their account.
However, police say the number connects to criminal call centers posing as Apple representatives. Once on the phone, scammers attempt to gain remote access to victims’ devices and banking apps. From there, they can steal credit card details, passwords, and even request direct payments through gift cards or cryptocurrency.
Officials emphasize that Apple never sends unsolicited texts about account issues and will never ask for remote access. Residents are urged to delete any suspicious texts and report incidents immediately to the PPPD or Apple Support directly through the official Apple website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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