Criminals are using Apple iTunes purchases to steal from unsuspecting consumers, according to news reports.
The way this particular crime works is that it siphons money from your iTunes account — or one fraudulently created with your card information.
iTunes credit card scam: How it works
Here’s how the scam works: Crooks have found a way to charge your iTunes account, set up an account that is connected to your card, or are spoofing iTunes charges on your account. The scheme is so effective because many people don’t even notice that they’re being robbed.
How is that possible? Because the crooks start off taking small amounts, which in some cases, could be easily overlooked by someone not closely checking their card statements.
The unauthorized charge may look like this — “APL*ITUNES.CON/BILL 866-712-7753 CA” — according to financial site MoneyTips.
iTunes credit card scam: How to stop it
If you’re an Apple user, it may be hard to keep up with the many products you use. Even though iTunes will be going away in the fall, it’s likely this scam is here to stay for a while. You’ll still need to be on the lookout for fake charges from the App Store, iBooks Store and the like.
How to dispute an iTunes charge
If you see an unauthorized charge on iTunes, you can dispute it. Here’s how:
- First, check your purchase history to see how long the charge has been occurring.
- Click or tap this link: Manage your subscriptions.
- If you don’t recognize the charge or subscription, Contact Apple Support for a refund.
Another critical practice is to keep a close eye on all of your financial statements statements. You do this by:
- Checking your online balance and transactions often (daily, if possible) on your financial institutions’ websites or apps
- When your credit card statement comes (in the mail or electronically) go over it with a fine-tooth comb. You may find discrepancies if you take your time
- Sign up for free credit monitoring with CreditKarma.com or CreditSesame.com.
Money expert Clark Howard is also a big fan of freezing your credit to protect you from financial fraud. His Credit Freeze Guide walks you through the steps.
