New scams
Police warn against trafficking in counterfeit iPhones
November 9, 2024 – 3:16 p.mReading time: 2 min.
Fraudsters lure prospective buyers with supposedly cheap iPhones. Police warn of two scams criminals use to sell counterfeit devices.
The police in North Rhine-Westphalia have uncovered two new scams involving fake iPhones. As n-tv reports, two customers in Iserlohn fell victim to fraudsters who are active both in front of electronics stores and on the Internet.
In the first scam, the perpetrators approach potential buyers directly in front of electronics stores. In Iserlohn, a stranger offered a customer an iPhone 15 Pro Max and AirPods at a price that was less than a third of the usual retail price. The reason given by the man for the low price was an acute lack of money.
The sale itself took place in front of the customer’s home. The fraud was only noticed when the buyer tried to set up the devices: it was not possible to log in with the Apple ID. The police describe this approach as a “surprise technique”.
The second scam targets online shoppers. Another customer from Iserlohn wanted to purchase an iPhone 16 Pro Max via an internet platform. Despite following police safety instructions and checking the serial number, the woman received a worthless device after a meeting in Gelsenkirchen.
Investigators point to a flourishing international trade in counterfeit iPhones. They advise consumers to be particularly vigilant about prices below official offers. The serial numbers given on the packaging often come from real devices and are therefore not a reliable sign of authenticity.
The police recommend that prospective buyers carefully consider whether a saving of 100 euros justifies the risk of purchasing a counterfeit device. Particular caution is also required when sellers offer their goods outside of official stores.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Scam Prevention Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re delving into a rising concern surrounding technology and consumer safety: scams involving counterfeit iPhones. Joining us is Dr. Sarah Klein, a fraud prevention expert. Thank you for being here, Dr. Klein!
Dr. Sarah Klein (SK): Thank you for having me! It’s crucial that we raise awareness about these scams.
TNE: Recently, police in North Rhine-Westphalia reported two scams involving counterfeit iPhones. Can you elaborate on how these scams generally operate?
SK: Absolutely. The first scam involves fraudsters approaching potential buyers directly in front of electronics stores. They typically offer “too good to be true” deals on high-demand products like the iPhone 15 Pro Max. In Iserlohn, for example, a stranger offered a customer a heavily discounted phone, which ultimately turned out to be counterfeit.
TNE: It seems like a strategy that preys on people’s desire for a good deal. What about the second scam?
SK: The second scam tends to operate in the online marketplace. Criminals set up fake listings for iPhones, luring buyers with attractive prices. They can create convincing product images and descriptions, making it challenging for consumers to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit devices.
TNE: That sounds incredibly deceptive. What advice do you have for consumers to protect themselves from falling victim to these scams?
SK: First and foremost, always buy electronics from reputable retailers or directly from the manufacturer. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Additionally, if purchasing online, verify the website and read reviews from other customers. Look for security features like HTTPS in the web address.
TNE: Those are valuable tips. How have online platforms responded to the surge in such scams?
SK: Many online marketplaces have implemented stricter verification processes and buyer protection policies. However, scammers often find new loopholes. It’s crucial for consumers to remain vigilant.
TNE: It’s sobering to think about the extent of these scams. How can local authorities and communities aid in combatting these attempts?
SK: Community awareness programs can be effective. Local law enforcement can hold workshops to educate the public on recognizing scams. Utilizing social media campaigns to spread the word about current tactics can also help keep consumers informed and safe.
TNE: That’s a proactive approach. Lastly, what role does technology itself play in either facilitating or preventing these scams?
SK: Technology has both sides. While it enables scammers to reach broader audiences more easily, it also provides tools for identification and reporting. There are apps and software that can help identify counterfeit products and fraudulent listings. Encouragingly, advancements in AI and machine learning are enhancing detection capabilities in real-time.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Klein, for your insights today. It’s clear that staying informed and cautious is paramount in our tech-savvy world.
SK: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we all work together to eliminate such fraudulent activities.
TNE: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay safe and informed, and remember to keep your purchases secure!