The sneaky Apple scam targeting iPhone, iPad and iMac users by email in Ireland

Apple customers are being targeted by a new email scam purporting to be from the Californian tech giant.

Scam culture is on an upward trajectory in Ireland with many people now aware of the dangers associated with strange calls, texts and emails.

In the latest attempt to trick people, scammers are scheduling “support calls” with customers or are leaving voicemails that impersonate Apple Support.

The emails claim to be attempting to contact you and reads: “We’re trying to call you at the phone number you provided, but we’re getting voicemail. We’ll try to call you again.”

This message is followed by a link to open a case with your Apple ID with Apple and has an attachment on the email.

A statement released by the company says: “Scammers often try to trick you into sharing personal or financial information by sending you messages or links to websites that might look like they’re from Apple, but their actual purpose is to steal your account information.

The sneaky Apple scam targeting iPhone, iPad and iMac users by email in Ireland (DPA/PA Images)

“Some phishing emails will ask you to click on a link to update your account information.

“Others might look like a receipt for a purchase in the App Store, iTunes Store, iBooks Store, or for Apple Music, that you’re certain you didn’t make.

“If you're suspicious about an unexpected message, call, or request for personal information or money, it's safer to presume it's a scam and contact that company directly if you need to.

“If you're concerned about a security issue with your Apple device, you can get help from Apple.”

Some key things you can do to avoid scams that target your Apple account and devices are:

• Never share personal information like credit card numbers, unless you can verify the recipient is who they claim to be.
• Protect your Apple ID. Use two-factor authentication, always keep your contact information secure and up to date, and never share your Apple ID password or verification codes with anyone. Apple never asks for this information to provide support.
• Never use Apple Gift Cards to make other kinds of payments.
• 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.