Highlights
- Scammers request Apple ID login screenshots to gain control of your iPhone.
- Never log into your Apple ID when selling a used iPhone.
- Treat requests for sensitive information with suspicion.
- Contact Apple support immediately if you fall victim to this scam.
We’ve all heard horror stories of people getting scammed trying to sell their used iPhones online.
Scammers are using a new brilliant trick that iPhone owners should watch out for.
On the surface, it seems pretty legit, but it can turn out to be expensive very, very quickly.
How The Scam Works
Here’s how it goes down: you list your old iPhone for sale and a “buyer” contacts you and tells you they are interested in it.
So far, so good.
But then they make a reasonable-sounding request: log into your Apple ID on the phone and send them a screenshot to confirm you’re the rightful owner.
In theory, this makes sense because a buyer wants to know that the person they’re buying from has complete access.
That’s where this scam comes in, though.
By logging into your Apple ID information, the scammer is able to take control of your iPhone and lock you out remotely.
Then, he’ll ask you for a ransom price to get control back!
How’s that for a twisted version of digital extortion and identity theft?
So what’s the moral of this story?
Never log into your personal Apple ID when selling a used iPhone, even if your buyer appears to be very convincing.
That one provides scammers with all they need to get control over the gadget from afar.
Protect Yourself
- To protect yourself, treat with suspicion any requests for sensitive account information, such as a password, from someone you do not know or trust completely.
- Before revealing any sensitive details, make sure that the requests are absolutely, totally, completely legitimate. Never underestimate how devious some of these online crooks can be!
- If you do fall for it, call Apple support immediately to take back control.
- However, while selling technology online, it is best to proceed with caution from the very start.
So after all is said and done regarding iPhone selling scams, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
FAQs
How do scammers gain control of your iPhone in this scam?
Scammers ask you to log into your Apple ID on the phone and send a screenshot, which allows them to take control of your iPhone remotely.
Why shouldn’t I log into my Apple ID when selling a used iPhone?
Logging into your Apple ID can give scammers the access they need to lock you out of your device and demand a ransom to return control.
What should I do if someone asks for my Apple ID login information?
Treat such requests with suspicion and verify the legitimacy of the request before sharing any sensitive information.
How can I protect myself from iPhone selling scams?
Always be cautious with sensitive account information and ensure that any requests are legitimate. Do not log into your Apple ID for potential buyers.
What should I do if I fall victim to this scam?
Contact Apple support immediately to regain control of your iPhone and secure your account.
What’s the best way to proceed when selling technology online?
Exercise caution from the start, avoid sharing sensitive information, and verify the identity and intentions of potential buyers to prevent scams.
Also Read: “I thought it was an iPhone”, Android Smartphone Rejected by Thieves in Unusual DC Robbery
Also Read: Turkish Man Steals iPhones Worth $30,000 for Girlfriend’s Car Gift
Join MyMobile WhatsApp Channel
