IDR 33 Billion Wiped Out Instantly: Beware of Latest Fraud Tactics
The euphoria surrounding the launch of the latest iPhone range is being immediately exploited by cybercrime syndicates. Less than a week after its release, Apple’s new gadget hunters are facing a dual threat that is draining pockets.
From the rise of fake retail sites masquerading as sweet discounts in the UK, to the emergence of mysterious bills worth tens of billions of rupiah suddenly hitting consumers’ credit cards in Hong Kong, this modus operandi is increasingly targeting consumers caught up in high levels of enthusiasm.
‘Tempting Discount’ Traps in the UK
According to a report by The Guardian, cited from Digital Trends on Thursday (17/09/2026), there has been a reckless surge in counterfeit websites claiming to be official Apple retailers since the latest iPhone line was announced on 9 September.
Data from cybersecurity researcher Alexandre Francois of WhoisXML API noted that the registration of new domain names misappropriating the term ‘iPhone’ skyrocketed to over 200 sites within the first 24 hours of the launch.
These fraudulent sites employ classic but effective tactics to deceive victims:
Displaying much lower price tags, slashing the price of the latest iPhone by hundreds of pounds from the official release price of £1,199.
Directing payment methods via direct bank transfers—rather than credit or debit cards—to avoid consumer protection through chargeback mechanisms.
Using tight countdown timer tactics to psychologically pressure victims into making transfers without thinking.
Worse still, several sites have been proven to advertise standard ‘iPhone’ variants that are actually fictitious and were never officially released by Apple.
Hong Kong Scandal: Mysterious Bills Reach IDR 33 Billion
As if the drama of counterfeit sites were not enough, a far more terrifying problem has erupted in Hongerm Kong. Quoting a report from the South China Morning Post, the Hong Kong Police have received over 700 complaints regarding unauthorised credit card transactions linked to the iPhone pre-order process.
Total losses are currently estimated at HK$14.7 million (approximately IDR 33 billion), with the highest individual loss reaching HK$114,000 (approximately IDR 57 million) for a single victim.
Credit card holders were shocked to receive iPhone purchase bills despite never having made such transactions. This flood of complaints even temporarily paralysed the customer service of several local banks for an entire weekend.
Francis Fong, Honorary President of the Hong Kong Information Technology Federation, suspects that Apple’s checkout system may have loosened double-verification layers, such as 3D Secure, to ensure smooth transaction traffic during pre-orders. This loophole is suspected to have been exploited by credit card theft (carding) syndicates.
Responding to this incident, local banking giants such as HSBC and Hang Seng Bank have moved quickly to conduct investigations and have promised refunds for transactions proven to be fictitious. Nevertheless, the public is still waiting to see who will ultimately be held responsible for the final losses—Apple or the banking sector.
Tips for Safely Purchasing the Latest iPhone
For those planning to purchase the newest iPhone series, authorities and cybersecurity analysts advise remaining vigilant by noting three important points:
Use Official Channels: Conduct transactions only through the official Apple Store or accredited reseller partners.
Avoid Direct Transfers: Never make peer-to-peer payments or bank transfers to individual accounts in exchange for promised discounts.
Check Accounts Regularly: Monitor your credit or debit card statements intensively to anticipate any suspicious debits.