Cybercriminals are playing a new game, demanding Apple IDs in the name of Lost iPhone alerts
These days, cybercriminals are resorting to fraudulent tactics, claiming to have recovered an iPhone. They send users messages claiming they've recovered their iPhone. They then demand their Apple ID and carry out the fraud.
Losing any smartphone is devastating, especially if it's an iPhone. If you then receive a message saying your phone has been found, people often immediately believe it.
But according to cybersecurity experts, this trust can lead you to a new phishing scam. In this scam, fraudsters convince you that your lost iPhone has been found and then ask for your Apple ID to get it back, after which they defraud you.
The Swiss National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) says scammers are exploiting Apple's Find My feature. Typically, when an iPhone is lost, users write their mobile number or email address on the lock screen so someone can contact them if the phone is found. But now, fraudsters are using this information to trick people.
How does this scam work?
- The scammers first send a message via iMessage or SMS, claiming to be an employee of Apple's Find My team.
- The message contains complete information about the phone, such as its model, storage, and color.
- The message contains a link. The fraudsters say they've found your phone and that you should click on the link to see its location.
- The link leads to a fake Apple login page. This page looks exactly like the real thing, but it's created by scammers.
- As soon as a user enters their Apple ID, fraudsters steal their data. They can use this information to unlock and sell stolen iPhones.
How to avoid this scam?
To avoid this scam, it's crucial to never click on any unknown or suspicious links. Even if you accidentally open a link, carefully check the URL and never enter your Apple ID.
It's also wise to write a different email address on the lost phone's lock screen to protect your real email address. Furthermore, keeping your SIM card's PIN enabled significantly reduces the risk of misuse.
If you ever believe your Apple ID or personal data is at risk, immediately change your password, file a complaint with the nearest police station, and report it via the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.