An email, text, or pop-up saying your Apple ID was 'locked' or 'disabled' for security and you must verify through a link is one of the most common phishing scams. Paste it for an instant read.
Quick answer — No. Apple doesn't email or text a link asking you to verify your password or payment to unlock an account — those are phishing. Check your account by typing appleid.apple.com yourself, not via the message.
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Why it's phishing
Apple doesn't lock your account and then text or email you a link to 'verify' your password or payment info — and the link in these messages never goes to apple.com. It points to a lookalike (apple-id-verify-support.com, icloud-secure-login.net) built to capture your Apple ID, password, and card. The urgency ('disabled in 24 hours') exists to stop you from checking. Real Apple security prompts appear on your own trusted Apple devices, not via a random link.
What to do
Don't tap the link or enter anything. Check your account by going to appleid.apple.com yourself (type it) or to Settings on your device — a real issue would show up there. Turn on two-factor authentication. If you already entered your Apple ID password on a linked page, change it immediately, remove any unknown devices, and contact Apple Support through their official site.
If you already paid or shared your info
Don't panic — acting quickly limits the damage. Do these now:
Typed your password on a linked page? Change it immediately — and anywhere you reused it — then turn on two-factor authentication.
Entered a card number? Call your bank to freeze or replace the card and watch for unauthorized charges.
Read out a one-time / 2FA code, or granted remote access? Contact the company and your bank now, and run a security scan on the device.
Shared your SSN or ID? Make a plan at IdentityTheft.gov and consider a credit freeze.
Report phishing to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov (and ic3.gov for online scams).
FAQ
Does Apple send a link to unlock your Apple ID?
No. Apple doesn't email or text a link asking you to verify your password or payment to unlock an account — those are phishing. Check your account by typing appleid.apple.com yourself, not via the message.
I entered my Apple ID password on a link — what now?
Change your Apple ID password right away, enable two-factor authentication, review and remove unknown devices and payment methods, and watch for fraudulent charges. Contact Apple Support through apple.com.