Recently, there has been an increase in scams targeting iPhone users, especially on the Telegram platform. Fraudsters can lock your device, steal or delete data, and demand ransom with threats. This was warned about by Digital Security Expert Arthur Papyan.
The expert details the types of scams:
“Scheme 1 – Romantic versia
At the core of this scheme is the fraudster pretending to have romantic interest. The scammers contact users on Telegram, presenting themselves as a potential acquaintance. After chatting for some time and gaining trust, they invent a story that they have allegedly lost their phone and urgently need to access their iCloud account to recover important photos or data. They ask you to log in to their Apple ID from your iPhone. As soon as you do so, the scammer immediately changes the Apple ID password, activates the “Find My iPhone” function, and locks your device. Then they demand ransom to unlock your phone.
Scheme 2 – Job Offer
In this scheme, scammers contact victims, often via Telegram, presenting themselves as a company manager and offering supposedly remote work as an app tester. They describe in detail the working conditions, schedule, and promised salary, creating an atmosphere of trust. The main part of the scam begins when they ask the user to log out of their own iCloud account and log in with the scammer-provided iCloud account, explaining that this is necessary to access the apps being tested. The victim, not suspecting the fraud, enters the provided username and password on their iPhone. As soon as these steps are completed, the iPhone is immediately locked with a “Lost iPhone” message, followed by an attempt to demand ransom via Telegram.
Gaming Scam – Children as Targets
More alarming is that similar schemes are now also targeting children. Scammers promise children free games, new Roblox themes (mods), or other attractive bonuses. They ask children to log in with their Apple ID or other accounts, allegedly to obtain this “free” content. Children, unaware of the danger, log in using their or their parents’ iPhone/iPad with the scammer’s iCloud credentials, which allows the fraudsters to lock the device or steal personal data, photos, etc.
How to protect yourself and what to do if you are already tricked
NEVER LOG INTO SOMEONE ELSE’S APPLE ID ON YOUR DEVICE. This is the most important rule. Your iPhone is designed to work with your personal Apple ID. Only trusted family members can share an Apple ID.
Talk to Your Children: Explain to children the importance of online security. Teach them never to share their passwords or account information in exchange for free games, mods, or other promises. Warn them about suspicious links and strangers making promises.
If your iPhone is locked
Contact Apple Support immediately. This is the only official way to unlock your device. Be prepared to provide proof of purchase: you will be required to present proof of purchase (original box and receipt). This process may take up to one month, as it is processed by Apple’s special department. In fact, I have never succeeded in unlocking a phone, but apart from that, I see no other option, and I categorically exclude transferring any money to the scammers. Always stay alert on online platforms. Your safety is in your hands. Share this information with your friends and family members so they are protected as well,” says Digital Security expert Arthur Papyan.
