Apple/Google ID 'Storage Full / Locked' Phish
A message says your iCloud/Google storage is full or your account is locked and links to a fake login to 'fix' it, stealing your credentials and card.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
You get a message that your Apple or Google account is locked, over its storage limit, or will lose data unless you act. The link leads to a fake sign-in and billing page that captures your account password, two-factor code, and card 'to upgrade storage.' These accounts hold photos, contacts, backups, and are recovery points for other services, so takeover is valuable. Manage storage and account issues only in official settings.
What it usually looks like
- A 'storage full' or 'account locked' Apple/Google message.
- A link to sign in and fix or upgrade.
- A fake login and payment page.
- Threats of data loss or lockout.
Common warning signs
- Sign-in/upgrade links to non-apple.com/google.com sites.
- Requests for password, 2FA code, and card together.
- Pressure about losing photos or access.
- Generic greeting.
Example wording scammers use
“Your iCloud storage is full. Upgrade now or your photos will be deleted: icloud-storage-upgrade.net”
“Your Google account has been locked. Verify your identity to restore access.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Your Apple/Google login and 2FA code.
- Your card 'for storage.'
- Account access and reusable recovery.
What to do
- Manage storage/account only in Settings or the official site.
- Never log in from the message's link.
- Enable two-factor and check trusted devices.
- Delete and report.
What to do if you already responded
- Change your Apple/Google password and review devices/sessions.
- Call your card issuer if you paid.
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.