What should I do if I get a fake Apple charge text and my iPhone locks?
Answer
Treat unexpected Apple charge texts as scams unless they appear in your real Apple account purchase history. Do not reply to the text or share codes. If the iPhone is locked from too many passcode attempts, use official Apple passcode recovery with a computer—never a stranger’s remote unlock offer.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Scam texts about Apple charges often try to steal Apple ID codes; do not share codes with callers.
- Official forgotten-passcode recovery erases the iPhone; restore from backup afterward if you have one.
Follow these steps
Ignore the text and verify real purchases
Do not tap links in the text. From a computer, sign in at Apple’s official account site and check recent purchases and media subscriptions for a real charge.
You should see: You confirm there is no real $386 Apple purchase, or you see a real charge to dispute with Apple.
Secure the Apple ID
Change the Apple ID password on a trusted device or computer, review trusted devices, and enable two-factor authentication if it is not already on.
You should see: The account uses a new password and unknown devices are removed.
Wait out a temporary lock if shown
If the screen says try again in a few minutes, wait the full timer and enter the correct device passcode carefully once.
You should see: The phone unlocks, or it progresses to a longer Unavailable state.
Use Apple’s official passcode recovery
If the phone is fully locked, follow Apple’s forgotten-passcode steps with a Mac or PC using Finder or the Apple Devices/iTunes app. This erases the iPhone and restores from backup.
You should see: The iPhone erases and can be set up again with your Apple ID, or Apple/carrier identity steps are required next.
Not sure this is the right page? Check here
0 of 5 checked
Extra tips
What to look for: Whether appleid.apple.com shows a real $386 purchase, the exact lock screen wording such as iPhone Unavailable, and any caller asking for your passcode or screen-share access.
Before you change anything: Do not reply to the suspicious text. Check purchases only on Apple’s official account site or the App Store purchase history. Have a trusted computer and cable ready if passcode recovery is needed. Never share your Apple ID password or one-time codes.