In London, smartphone theft is on the rise, with a staggering 117,000 devices stolen last year and an expected increase in 2025. iPhones, some valued at over £1,200, are prime targets due to their worth and the sensitive personal data they hold, like photos and financial information.
Apple’s robust security features, including Stolen Device Protection, make it challenging for thieves to use stolen iPhones. Despite this, criminals are attempting to circumvent these protections by sending deceptive messages to owners of stolen devices. These messages, designed to look like legitimate notifications from Apple, aim to trick users into disclosing crucial information that could allow the removal of Activation Lock.
Activation Lock, a key security function from Apple, binds an iPhone to its owner’s Apple ID, rendering it unusable and unsellable if stolen. Criminals are employing tactics to deceive users into providing access codes that can unlock the device and wipe out personal data for resale.
To make these messages appear authentic, scammers include specific details about the missing device, such as its model and color, possibly obtained from the device itself. While the exact method of obtaining users’ phone numbers remains uncertain, it is suspected that criminals may exploit information from SIM cards or Apple’s Find My feature, which allows contact details to be displayed on lost devices’ lock screens.
In response to these threats, the National Cyber Security Centre recommends following essential safety measures, including ignoring suspicious messages, refraining from clicking on unknown links, and activating Lost Mode immediately via the Find My app if a device is lost. Users are advised to safeguard their SIM cards with a PIN and exercise caution in displaying contact information on lock screens to prevent unauthorized access.
It is crucial for iPhone users to be vigilant and remember that Apple will never request sensitive information via unsolicited messages. By staying informed and adhering to these security tips, users can protect their devices and personal data from falling into the hands of cybercriminals.
