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Neighbor Alert: Social Media Ad Scam

Picture of Lyndsay Evans Lyndsay Evans : Updated on February 4, 2026

Neighbors Financial Education

2:45

A New Phone Scam And How to Protect Yourself

Scammers are getting smarter and, unfortunately, more aggressive.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen a growing number of customers targeted by a frightening new phone scam that often starts while browsing Facebook on a mobile web browser (not the Facebook app). It looks official, feels urgent, and is designed to panic people into acting quickly.

How the Scam Works

While scrolling online, a pop-up suddenly appears claiming:

“Your phone has been locked due to illegal activity.”

“Apple Support must be contacted immediately.”

The message often accuses the device of containing illegal material and provides a phone number that appears to be an Apple Support number.

It is NOT Apple.

When the customer calls:

• A scammer pretends to be Apple Support
• They use fear and threats involving police or legal action
• They pressure the customer to download a remote access app
• Once installed, the scammer takes control of the phone
• They access online banking, move money, or push for wires or gift cards

We’ve even had a case where a customer was pressured into coming into the bank to send a wire transfer.

Thankfully, we were able to stop it before money was lost, but many others across the country haven’t been so lucky.

Important to Know: Apple Will NEVER Do This

Apple (or any legitimate company) will:

❌ Never lock your device through a web pop-up
❌ Never accuse you of illegal activity this way
❌ Never demand that you call a number immediately
❌ Never ask you to download remote access software

These scare tactics are a major red flag.

What To Do If You See a Pop-Up Like This

If a message appears saying your device is locked:

✅ Do NOT call the number
✅ Do NOT click anything on the page
✅ Close the browser completely
✅ Restart your phone if needed

If you’re unsure — ask a trusted family member or stop by your bank.

We’d much rather look at something that turns out to be nothing than see someone become a victim.

Simple Tips to Stay Safe Online

• Use the Facebook app instead of a web browser when possible
• Never trust pop-ups that create urgency or fear
• Don’t download apps unless you know exactly what they are
• Be cautious of anyone asking for immediate action involving money
• When in doubt — pause and ask for help

Scammers rely on panic. Taking a moment to stop can save thousands of dollars.