unsolicited premium technical support , wanting to fix my Icloud problem, i did not know i had an iCloud problem, I was given this number to call 844 822 2855
I called 1-424-384-4005 back after receiving a call on Sunday morning. After holding for a few minutes a man with an Indian accent answered. When he asked how he could help me, I asked to be removed from their list. He insisted that there is no list, and could not remove me. But, he told me to have a nice day. (??)
The a-holes called early this morning several times before I finally picked up. A recorded message claimed it was Apple tech support informing me that unauthorized activity was detected on my account. Gave a number to call OR I could press 1 to speak to a tech now. I knew this was a scam immediately because they called a number that I rarely use - and definitely do not have associated with my Apple/iCloud accounts. But, I pressed 1 and a man with an Indian accent answered. Very clear English so I assume call was from the US. He said my Apple iCloud account had been accessed 11 times over the last two weeks from oversees. Asked if I was traveling abroad? No. He asked if I had access to a laptop or computer. If so, he could walk me through a few steps to secure my account. He had my first and last name. He started asking for more info - I cut him off and said I have no way of knowing if this is really apple, and not a scam. He said he could send an instant email from Apple support to verify. Then, he asked me to confirm my email - to which I responded - no way I'm giving you any information over the phone. If this is legit, then you should have my email. He said he had it but it was 'encrypted.' I said OK, just send the validation email and if I receive it, then you'll know it's correct. He started getting agitated. He said that only his supervisor could access the entire email and that I would have to be placed on a really long 5 minute hold. I said Ok. Throughout this call, I signed on to my iCloud account, changed the password and disconnected all of my devices. While I was updating the new password on my iPhone, iPads, and MacBook Pro, the phone disconnected after about 5 mins. I figured that 8-10 mins with me was time he couldn't spend trying to scam other people.
I will say that this was one of the more 'sophisticated' scams I've run into in a while. This loser sounded fairly competent. I follow one simple rule - if I didn't initiate the call, it is probably a scam. If you call ME and don't have MY info, it is definitely a scam. I don't even confirm information by phone when my bank calls me to try to upsell me on something. Can't trust anyone on the phone.
Scam. When I asked them to hold while I verify they hung up. Real busy call center with huge background noise, no noise partition. I could hear Indian language in background. Apple does not call. And does not provide 'support' link via email. Call them directly or log on throug regular support page.
Previously left three messages on answering machine today. When I answered the fourth call and told them to not call back, immediately hung up without responding. Allegedly iCloud security breach.