Amid warnings of a new SMS threat, Apple introduces a list of safety regulations that can keep you safe. Reportedly, Apple this month refreshed the security support document that provides iPhone, iPad, and Mac users with tips on how to recognize and avoid social engineering schemes like phishing messages and fake support calls.
It looks like the updated information follows recent reports of “smishing” attacks targeting Apple IDs.
Apple shares security tips
According to 9t05Mac, many malicious actors have been sending out SMS text messages that attempt to get users to provide their Apple ID usernames and passwords on a fake iCloud website.
Apple had explained further that a user should contact Apple directly. Also users should not answer a suspicious phone call or message claiming to be from Apple.
How can you protect your device
Further, Apple will not ask users to log into any website, to tap Accept in the two-factor authentication dialog, or to enter a two-factor code into a website. Additionally, Apple will not request that users disable features like two-factor authentication, Find My, or Stolen Device Protection.
- You should not share personal data or security information such as passwords or security codes.
- Never agree to enter them into a webpage that someone directs you to.
- Use two-factor authentication and keep your contact information secure and up to date
- Never share your Apple ID password or verification codes with anyone
- Never use Apple Gift Cards to make payments to other people.
- Learn how to identify legitimate Apple emails about your App Store or iTunes Store purchases.
- Learn how to keep your Apple devices and data secure.
- Download software only from sources you can trust.
- Don’t follow links or open or save attachments in suspicious or unsolicited messages.
- Don’t answer suspicious phone calls or messages claiming to be from Apple. Instead, contact Apple directly through official support channels.
How to identify that you are being scammed?
Apple has also introduced a set of guidelines on how to identify that you are being scammed. Here’s how you can identify.
- In case the email or phone doesn’t match the name of the company that it claims to be from.
- The email or phone ‘unknown person’ used to contact you is different from the one that you gave that company.
- A link in a message looks right, but the URL doesn’t match the company’s website.
- The message looks significantly different from other messages that you’ve received from the company.
- The message requests personal information, like a credit card number or account password.
- The message is unsolicited and contains an attachment.
Furthermore, Apple’s guidelines provide key information that all users should be aware of to protect themselves, such as a recommendation to ignore messages with suspicious links.
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