‘Cheap iPhone deal’: warning over scam sites selling latest Apple mobiles
Criminals exploit demand for iPhone 18 Pro and foldable Duo to trick people eager to get their hands on oneApple has just launched a range of new iPhones, including a foldable hand
By The Guardian
Scammers are exploiting demand for Apple’s latest iPhones by setting up fake websites that promise bargains on the new iPhone 18 Pro and foldable Duo. The warning comes as buyers searching for a “cheap iPhone deal” are being tempted away from Apple’s own site by prices that look far below the official starting level.
The scam typically begins when someone spots a site offering the new phone for less than Apple’s price and pays by bank transfer. The money is then sent before any handset arrives, leaving the buyer exposed.
The latest warning focuses on people looking for the new models soon after launch, when interest is highest. One key check is timing: the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are the only models available for pre-order at this stage, while the folding Duo is not due to go on pre-order until 16 October.
Apple’s cheapest new phone is priced at £1,199, making heavily discounted offers a clear red flag. Any website taking payment by bank transfer, especially for a brand-new device, should be treated with caution.