Apple Pay / Google Pay 'Confirm to Receive' Trick
A 'buyer' claims they sent money and you must 'confirm' or approve a prompt to receive it — the prompt actually authorizes a payment or reveals a code.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
In a sale or transfer, someone says they have paid and that you need to approve a notification or enter a code to 'accept' or 'confirm' the incoming money. In reality the prompt approves an outgoing payment, links your card to their device, or captures a verification code. Receiving money never requires you to approve a payment or share a code. The confusion is the point.
What it usually looks like
- A claim you must 'confirm' or 'approve' to receive funds.
- A prompt or code you are told to enter or approve.
- Pressure to act so the payment 'goes through.'
- Coaching through unfamiliar steps.
Common warning signs
- Receiving money should never require you to approve a payment.
- Being asked to read back or enter a code.
- Steps that feel backwards or confusing.
- A stranger guiding you through your wallet app.
Example wording scammers use
“I sent the payment — you'll get a prompt, just approve it to receive the money.”
“Enter the code you just got to confirm the transfer on your end.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- You to approve an outgoing payment.
- A verification code or card link.
- Your money while you think you are receiving.
What to do
- Never approve a prompt or share a code to 'receive' money.
- Check your own account to see if funds actually arrived.
- Do not let anyone guide you through wallet steps.
- Stop and block if pushed.
What to do if you already responded
- Review authorized devices/cards and remove any you do not recognize.
- Contact your card issuer and the wallet's support.
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.