Scammers Capitalize on the Year's Biggest Smartphone Release

Woburn, MA – September 7, 2023 – In anticipation of the upcoming release of Apple's iPhone 15, Kaspersky experts have uncovered a range of scams that exploit the excitement around the event. These scams encompass various fraudulent schemes, each carrying distinct risks for unsuspecting consumers, including potential data and financial losses.

In one prevalent deceptive maneuver, scammers entice users with the chance to purchase the iPhone 15 ahead of its official launch. This scheme capitalizes on users' eagerness to be among the first to possess the device. Here's how this scam typically unfolds: scammers claim they can provide pre-release iPhones, often at a premium price. To secure their “exclusive” purchase, victims are required to make an upfront payment or divulge their financial information. Additionally, users are asked to provide personal identification details such as their name, address, and phone number. Following the submission of payment, the scammers vanish, leaving victims without the promised iPhone and deprived of their funds. Beyond the financial risks, this scam also raises significant privacy concerns, as the pilfered data may potentially be sold on the dark web.

Another scam presents participants with the chance to win the new iPhone 15, provided they pay a nominal upfront fee. The payment is often disguised as a "processing" or "registration" fee. After paying, participants receive nothing in return, aside from financial loss.

"In the digital age, scammers are constantly adapting and exploiting our excitement for the latest tech trends,” said Tatyana Kulikova, security expert at Kaspersky. “It's crucial for consumers to stay vigilant, verify offers, and safeguard their personal information. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it often is.”

To avoid falling victim to such scams, Kaspersky experts recommend:

·       Verify the Source: Ensure you are dealing with reputable and authorized sellers, especially for pre-release purchases.

·       Avoid Upfront Payments: Exercise caution with offers demanding upfront payments for giveaways or pre-release products.

·       Use Official Channels: Rely on Apple's official website or authorized retailers for genuine purchases.

·       Check Reviews: Before making any online purchases, research the seller and review customer feedback.

·       Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Safeguard your online accounts, especially those linked to payment methods, with 2FA.

·       Use Security Solution: An automated security solution, like Kaspersky Premium, will protect you from all known and unknown scams.

·       Stay Informed: Stay current on common scams and cybersecurity best practices.

 

About Kaspersky

Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. Kaspersky’s deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative security solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company’s comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection and specialized security solutions and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help over 220,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.kaspersky.com. 

 

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Sawyer Van Horn

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