Apple has issued an urgent warning to all iPhone users about a rising FaceTime scam that fraudsters are using to drain bank accounts. The company reported a surge in cases in late June and is urging users to report any suspicious FaceTime calls.
How the Scam Works
According to Apple, criminals are exploiting FaceTime, the video-calling app available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, to obtain victims' personal information. The scam typically begins with a text message alerting users of 'suspicious' activity on their bank account. Victims are prompted to call the number provided, where fraudsters pose as legitimate bank employees. They then ask to switch to a FaceTime video call for 'verification' purposes.
The method relies on the familiarity of seeing another person's face, as reported by the Daily Mail. During the call, scammers often convince victims to share their phone screens, allowing the fraudsters to see login credentials and one-time passcodes as victims sign into their banking apps. This enables the scammers to hack into accounts and siphon savings.
Variations and Targets
In other versions of the scam, fraudsters pose as Apple or Microsoft employees, or government staff, to convince victims to share personal information. The scam targets not only iPhone users but also iPad and Mac users who use FaceTime.
Apple's Response
Apple has set up a dedicated email address for reporting suspicious FaceTime calls. In a message on its website, the company stated: "If you receive a suspicious FaceTime call (for example, from what looks like a bank or financial institution), email a screenshot of the call information to reportfacetimefraud@apple.com." Users are instructed to open FaceTime, tap the 'More Info' button next to the suspicious call, and capture a screenshot. For suspicious links received in Messages or Mail, screenshots of the link and the sender's contact information should be emailed to the same address.
Police Advice
City of London Police, the UK's lead force against fraud, has provided prevention advice. Their recommendations include: never give personal information such as name, address, bank details, email, or phone number to anyone without fully verifying their identity. Always question any unsolicited calls, texts, or emails requesting personal information. Only contact companies using known phone numbers or email addresses, such as those found on the back of a bank card, and never use contact details provided in a suspicious message. Visit company websites directly rather than clicking links from unknown sources.
Apple's warning comes amid a broader rise in social engineering scams targeting mobile users. The company has urged all iPhone, iPad, and Mac users to remain vigilant and report any suspicious FaceTime activity immediately.
