What is Apple Pay Prank? Here’s what we know about new TikTok Trend and can someone steal money by just tapping on your phone

A new TikTok trend involving fake contactless payment sounds is drawing attention. Known as the ‘Apple Pay Prank,’ the trend has caused confusion and anger in public places. Videos of these pranks are spreading across TikTok and Instagram.

What is Apple Pay Prank?

The prank centers around playing the Apple Pay “ding” sound from a phone near strangers. Pranksters pretend to make a contactless payment using their phone against another person's pocket or device. After hearing the sound, some targets believe a real transaction has occurred. In many clips, pranksters add a verbal “thank you” to escalate the reaction.

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Incident in Kmart Turns Hostile

In a video filmed in a Kmart store, a teenager approached a man with dreadlocks. He asked for the time, then played the Apple Pay sound while pretending to tap the man’s phone. The man reacted angrily. He demanded an explanation and tried to take the prankster’s phone. The teen backed away, apologizing. The man eventually grabbed the phone as the video cut off.

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Public Reactions to Prank

Viewers of the videos have expressed concern. Many people commented that the prank was dangerous and disrespectful. Some said strangers should not be targeted. Others warned pranksters could face serious consequences. The prank is seen by many as a way to provoke strong emotional responses for online fame.

In a separate video, a prankster approached a man in Woolworths. He pretended to steal $20 using his phone and claimed he needed it for gambling. The man pursued him, and the teen ran through the store. The video ended before showing what happened next.

Another clip on the teen’s TikTok showed him making loud moaning sounds in strangers’ ears in stores like Bunnings. The purpose appeared to be filming confused reactions. Viewers criticized the behavior as intrusive.

FAQs

Can someone steal money by tapping their phone against yours?
No. Apple Pay requires authorization and a payment terminal. Phones cannot transfer funds by touching.

Why is the ‘Apple Pay Prank’ considered dangerous?
It involves deceiving strangers and may lead to confrontation or legal issues. Public reaction can be unpredictable.