Newport PD release - If you receive a text from Apple Pay with a message like this, it’s a scam. “Apple Pay has found a payment originating from a device awaiting clearance. A device with incomplete verifications was used to submit a [dollar amount] request in Cupertino, CA. processing has been paused as a result, and the payment will stay pending until the necessary identity check is cleared. Clearance case [number]. Did you authorize the payment made through this device? If yes, nothing further is expected from you. We'll complete the remaining clearance and resume processing automatically. If you did not authorize it, contact 877-389-**** [or other phone number] promptly. We’ll examine the activity and help protect your account. For billing assistance, call [same number as the previous number mentioned].” First, know that Apple does not text or call users about suspicious activity or unauthorized charges on Apple Pay. Any text message claiming to be an Apple Pay fraud alert with a phone number to call or a link to click is a phishing scam.  The sense of urgency to contact them is the tactic used to cause your panic. Telling you that the charge will automatically go through if you do not call them right away is their scare tactic to get you on the phone so they can begin the process of asking questions to gain your personal information. Examine the wording in the text. It isn’t how Apple normally communicates. Phrases such as device awaiting clearance, incomplete verifications, necessary identity check is cleared, and processing has been paused sound deliberately technical and official, but they don’t resemble Apple’s normal terminology for Apple Pay transactions. Did you also notice the contradiction? The text clearly states processing has been paused but then states if you authorized the payment (but doesn’t explain HOW you authorized it), nothing further is expected of you and they will complete the transaction automatically. So, what should you do? Never call the number, reply to the text or click any links. If you have Apply Pay, open the Wallet app on your device to review your actual Apple Pay and Apple Cash transaction history, or use Apple’s official support channels. If there is an actual issue with a credit or debit card linked to Apple Pay, contact your bank – not Apple – and your bank will handle the fraud protection and alerts. If you wish, you may also take a screenshot of the fraudulent message and email it to [email protected].  Then block the number that sent you the original text.