ISLAMABAD, October 28, 2026: Cybersecurity company Kaspersky has warned consumers about fraudulent websites exploiting interest in Apple’s newly launched iPhone Duo, with scammers using fake discounts, misleading preorder offers and deceptive online stores to collect personal information from prospective buyers.
According to a statement issued by Kaspersky, its cybersecurity researchers identified multiple scam attempts targeting consumers in different countries following the reported launch of Apple’s foldable smartphone.
The company said fraudsters were creating websites designed to resemble Apple’s official online platforms, using promotional offers and misleading claims to encourage customers to place orders without verifying the authenticity of the sellers.
Fake discounts and countdown timers
In one case identified by Kaspersky researchers, an English-language website advertised a 25 percent discount on the iPhone Duo.
The website closely imitated Apple’s visual design and displayed a countdown timer claiming that the promotional offer would expire within 30 minutes.
Kaspersky said such tactics were intended to create a false sense of urgency and pressure customers into making purchases without conducting appropriate checks.
Visitors attempting to place orders were asked to provide their contact information and delivery addresses.
Unlike conventional online stores, the website did not immediately request payment card details. Instead, it informed customers that a representative would contact them later to confirm delivery arrangements and payment information.
According to Kaspersky, this approach could serve as the initial stage of a fraudulent transaction, potentially exposing customers to financial losses and misuse of personal information.
Multilingual websites target international buyers
The cybersecurity company also identified fraudulent websites offering content in multiple languages to attract consumers from different countries.
Some of these websites displayed product specifications, allowed visitors to select their preferred currency and invited customers to submit preorder requests.
To appear legitimate, certain pages falsely suggested that customers would be redirected to Apple’s official website.
Kaspersky warned that these claims could mislead consumers into trusting unauthorised sellers.
Scammers exploit demand for new smartphones
Olga Altukhova, Senior Web Content Analyst at Kaspersky, said cybercriminals frequently exploit the excitement surrounding major technology launches.
“Scammers move fast when a flagship device hits the market, because hype creates urgency and urgency lowers caution,” she said.
Altukhova explained that fraudulent campaigns often attempt to move potential buyers into private communications before they have sufficient time to verify the legitimacy of an offer.
She warned that consumers purchasing expensive smartphones could become attractive targets because they were more likely to share personal information and payment details.
According to the cybersecurity expert, unusually large discounts, unofficial preorder offers and claims about limited availability should be treated as potential warning signs.
How consumers can avoid smartphone scams
Kaspersky advised consumers to purchase smartphones and other electronic devices through official brand websites, authorised retailers and reputable stores.
The company recommended avoiding suspicious promotional links and verifying the authenticity of online sellers before submitting personal or financial information.
It also encouraged users to employ security software capable of identifying fraudulent shopping websites and blocking phishing attempts.
Kaspersky said its consumer security solutions incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to detect suspicious online activity and protect users against emerging digital threats.
The company further advised online shoppers to consider using virtual payment cards or dedicated payment services to reduce the risk of exposing primary banking information.
Consumers were also encouraged to use secure password management tools and avoid sharing sensitive financial details with unknown sellers.
Kaspersky said increased vigilance during major technology launches was essential as cybercriminals continued developing more convincing fraudulent websites and online shopping schemes.