Kaspersky Warned of Fraudulent iPhone 18 Websites
Security researchers identified multiple global scam sites targeting consumers with fake iPhone 18 pre-order offers.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Financial Crime
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Kaspersky experts have uncovered a wave of fraudulent websites masquerading as official retailers to promote nonexistent iPhone 18 devices. These scam platforms operate globally in several languages to solicit personal data and financial payments from unsuspecting users.
Why it matters
Fraudsters are actively exploiting the high consumer demand and hype surrounding upcoming product launches to lure victims into revealing sensitive information. This campaign highlights how criminals utilize deceptive branding to bypass consumer caution during major tech releases.
Kaspersky identified scam websites offering a 25% discount on nonexistent iPhone 18 devices. Authorities and investigators are currently monitoring these sites as they solicit bank card details and cryptocurrency payments from global users.
The players
Kaspersky
This is a global cybersecurity company that provides antivirus, internet security, and digital privacy solutions to consumers and businesses.
Apple
This is a multinational technology corporation that designs, manufactures, and markets consumer electronics including the iPhone line.
The details
The fraudulent websites use sophisticated social engineering to collect names, phone numbers, and WhatsApp contact details alongside bank card information. Some sites even feature non-existent color options for the iPhone 18 Pro that have not been announced by Apple, serving as a key indicator of the scam.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: Kaspersky researchers officially issued warnings regarding the spread of these fraudulent websites.
Legal Context
This activity follows the established pattern of the 2024 phishing campaigns targeting early AI software adopters. Criminals increasingly mirror legitimate product launch hype to exploit gaps in consumer digital literacy across international borders.
Consumers should be extremely wary of any website offering discounts on unreleased hardware, as these sites often harvest banking credentials and personal identity information. Experts advise verifying all pre-order links exclusively through the manufacturer's official domain.
The takeaway
Always cross-reference promotional offers with the official manufacturer website before submitting payment or personal data. If a deal seems too good to be true during a high-profile product cycle, it is likely a security threat designed to compromise your financial assets.
Further reading
For more information on identifying online threats, visit our Financial Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by GULF NEWS.
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