New iPhone 17: This is how scammers steal your data
MEXICO CITY.- The pre-sale of the new iPhone 17 triggered an increase in digital scams for Latino consumers looking to get lower prices , according to the cybersecurity company Kaspersky .
According to the Russian-based firm, many people in Latin America turn to international websites or foreign online stores to purchase Apple products , and this is where scammers exploit the hype surrounding the latest release.
Data theft , and in some cases, financial loss, is caused to users through fake websites , fraudulent lotteries, and supposed "test user" recruitment programs .
In the case of fake websites, Kaspersky reported that the portals mimic the official Apple store, attracting users with fake pre-sales , the real goal of which is to capture bank card data during the supposed payment process.
On the other hand, he indicated that fraudulent lotteries consist of contests that promise iPhone devices as prizes in exchange for completing a survey, submitting personal information, and paying a delivery fee.
Among the data the survey requests from participants are email addresses, phone numbers, and home addresses; bank details are obtained later during the supposed payment process.
Finally, the firm indicated that the "test user " recruitment program scam operates in a similar way: interested parties provide contact information, banking information, and shipping addresses to receive "early access units." However, the device is never delivered, and the victims' data is exposed.
“Cybercriminals thrive on the excitement generated by major product launches, turning consumer enthusiasm into a gateway for data breaches,” said Fabio Assolini, director of Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis Team for Latin America.
Kaspersky recommends in response to this wave of iPhone 17 scams :
- Buy exclusively on official sites
- Check the site URL
- Reject unsolicited offers on untrustworthy sites
- Do not share personal data in exchange for “gifts”
- Enable multi-factor authentication and monitor accounts
- Have a cybersecurity tool
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