Beware of Fake iPhone 16 Scams

While Apple prepares for the highly anticipated release of the iPhone 16, fraudsters are taking advantage of the excitement among tech fans. Since the gadget is anticipated to go on sale on September 20 with the actual unveiling set for September 9, 2024, con artists are already active, taking advantage of the excitement around the upcoming release. 

Kaspersky’s researchers have uncovered a series of sophisticated scams that deceive consumers into relinquishing their money and personal information. These scams entice users with fake pre-orders, exclusive early-adopter offers, and fraudulent technical support, all presented through convincing websites that ultimately lead to financial losses and disappointment posing real threats to users’ financial security and personal data.

One prevalent scam involves fake pre-orders for the iPhone 16, offering discounts of nearly 40 percent. Victims are lured to convincing websites showcasing the latest iPhones, with promises of being among the first to own the device. However, once users enter their billing and shipping information and make a payment, they are left empty-handed. Once the payment is submitted, victims soon realize the money has disappeared from their account, but no iPhone is delivered. The fraudsters not only steal the victims’ money but also their personal information, which can be sold on the dark web.

Another scam uncovered by Kaspersky involves fake technical support for the iPhone. These fraudulent sites claim to offer updates, lost or stolen device reporting, and repair services. At the bottom, victims are also given the option to reach a repair service. In return, all the page asks is to sign in with your Apple ID. This scam is particularly dangerous because if someone gains access to your Apple ID, they can infiltrate your iCloud account, make unauthorized purchases, gaining access to your photos, documents, and device backups. Worst of all, your device can be locked and held for ransom.

Victims are directed to a slick website showcasing shiny new iPhones, enticing them with the promise to “be among the first to enjoy cutting-edge technology.” Once they click through, they’re asked for their billing and shipping information, with the option to pay via PayPal. A fake invoice is generated upon clicking ‘add to cart’ or ‘buy,’ factoring in tax and shipping, and even offering “free shipping” for orders over $1,000.

Olga Svistunova, a security expert at Kaspersky emphasizes the importance of vigilance, “As with most new technological releases, the launch of the iPhone 16 has generated massive excitement. Cybercriminals are quick to exploit this hype, so it’s precisely at times like these that consumers should be extra vigilant. When making new purchases, stick to official channels, be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true, and always verify URLs before sharing any personal information. Scammers are counting on eager fans letting their guard down, so vigilance is key.”

To safeguard yourself from scams related to the iPhone 16, Kaspersky offers several essential recommendations. Firstly, always stick to official channels for purchasing or pre-ordering the device; use Apple’s official website or trusted retailers and avoid clicking on links from unknown sites or promotional emails. Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true, such as offers of significant discounts or exclusive pre-order access, as these are often scams.

Ensure that any URL you visit starts with “https://” and matches the official Apple domain, and be cautious of emails from unofficial addresses. Protect your personal information by avoiding sites or emails that request sensitive details like credit card numbers or Apple ID passwords, as Apple will never ask for such information through unsolicited communications. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to your accounts, especially those linked to payment methods. Verify any special offers or pre-order deals through Apple’s official website or reliable news sources. Monitor your device and transactions closely, and report any suspicious activity to Apple or relevant authorities. Finally, consider using trusted security solutions like Kaspersky Premium to help defend against scams and protect your digital security.

Official invites for the event were given out in August, and the new iPhone 16 is scheduled to be introduced on Monday, September 9, 2024, during the “Glowtime” event. New iPhones typically go on sale shortly after the event, usually the Friday of the following week. That would mean the iPhone 16’s release date could be Friday, September 20th with preorders starting on Friday, September 13th 2024.  AI-powered features, redesigned hardware, bigger screens, slimmer frames, and a variety of new colors are among the anticipated improvements.