Image credit: AppleTrack/X account
As Apple opened preorders for the new iPhone 17, Kaspersky reported a surge in scams exploiting the launch hype. Fraudsters are using fake websites, bogus lotteries, and sham “tester” recruitment schemes to steal personal data and financial details, posing serious risks of identity theft and financial loss.
One scam involves counterfeit websites designed to mimic Apple’s official store, enticing users with “preorders before it sells out” but capturing bank card information during checkout.
Fraudsters are also promoting fake lotteries promising free iPhones, where participants must complete surveys, provide personal information such as emails and phone numbers, and pay a service or delivery fee. To boost credibility, these pages even feature fabricated feedback from supposed winners claiming to have received their “prizes.”
Another scheme advertises “tester” opportunities for the iPhone 17, targeting tech-savvy users willing to provide contact details and shipping addresses. Victims are charged a delivery fee in exchange for early access units that never arrive, often resulting in spam or phishing attacks.
“Cybercriminals thrive on the excitement of major product launches, turning consumer enthusiasm into a gateway for data breaches. We’ve seen these tactics evolve from crude phishing to highly polished sites that can look authentic. Users must prioritise verification over impulse to stay safe and avoid falling victim to these opportunistic threats,” comments Tatyana Shcherbakova, web content analyst at Kaspersky.
To help users stay protected against these scams, Kaspersky advises:
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Buy only from official sources such as Apple’s website, verified carriers, or authorized retailers.
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Verify URLs, avoid unsolicited offers, and ignore emails, texts, or ads promising deals or prizes.
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Never share sensitive data for “freebies” — legitimate contests rarely require card or address details upfront.
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Enable two-factor authentication on Apple ID and financial apps, and regularly monitor account activity.
