Following Apple’s announcement of new iPhone models including the iPhone Duo foldable handset and iPhone 18 Pro variants, security researchers have documented a significant surge in fraudulent websites designed to deceive consumers seeking discounted devices.
Criminals registered a large number of domain names incorporating keywords such as “Apple” and “iPhone” in the period surrounding the product launch. According to investigators at WhoisXML API, domain registration activity referencing new iPhone models typically peaks on the announcement day itself, with more than 200 new domains registered within 24 hours compared to zero or one on normal days. Many of these domains are subsequently developed into phishing and scam sites despite being flagged as dangerous by multiple security engines.
The fraudulent websites employ sophisticated tactics to appear legitimate. Scammers utilize artificial intelligence to replicate the design and content of genuine retailers, presenting products with realistic technical specifications and marketing claims. The sites typically advertise significantly reduced prices compared to Apple’s official pricing, with the iPhone 18 Pro starting at £1,199 and the 18 Pro Max at £1,299 officially. Many fraudulent sites also claim to offer early access to devices and may impose artificial time constraints to pressure potential buyers into hasty purchasing decisions.
Payment methods used by these sites serve as a notable warning sign. Scammers typically insist on bank transfers, cryptocurrency, or other payment methods that bypass the consumer protections associated with credit and debit card transactions. Legitimate Apple retailers offer multiple payment options including standard card-based methods.
Consumers are advised to verify which models have actually been announced and remain cautious of unsolicited offers. Those who suspect they have encountered fraud or provided financial information to scammers should contact their bank, report the incident to fraud authorities, and change their passwords. Apple’s Safari browser includes built-in warnings for known phishing and malware sites.
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