A particularly sophisticated scam is currently making the rounds via iMessage: cybercriminals lure people with tempting job offers in a seemingly exclusive group. Apple users value the high level of security of their devices, but they are not immune to attempted fraud. The latest scam spreading via iMessage follows a similar pattern to the scams previously observed via WhatsApp and SMS
Invitation to iMessage group
The victims are invited to a group conversation with strangers. There they are offered a simple and well-paid task: writing hotel reviews on Expedia. The promise: Up to 700 euros per day.
Screenshot: Netzwelt
The call of quick money
The offer sounds tempting, especially because of the high earnings and the simplicity of the task. Anyone interested should contact a specific number via WhatsApp.
But be careful: the contact details and senders vary, the messages remain almost identical. Anyone who accepts the offer and makes contact will be asked for personal data such as address, email and bank details - supposedly necessary for the job. But this is where the real fraud begins: Instead of making money, victims risk losing their own money.
Task scam: A clever scam
Known as a task scam, this fraud method begins with small, simple tasks for which victims are paid in Bitcoin - albeit into a fictitious account. A short time later, the scammer claims that the account is in deficit and asks the victim to make up the amount by promising a large commission. This commission is also transferred to the non-existent account. In this way, victims are gradually tricked into depositing more and more of their own money in the hope of receiving the promised wages that are never paid.
Precautions and protection
To avoid falling victim to such scams, it is important to never respond to questionable job offers. Leave the group immediately and do not respond to such messages, whether via iMessage or WhatsApp. Otherwise, you will be confirming to the scammers that your number is active.
In addition, a good antivirus program for iPhone and iPad can help to detect and block such fraud attempts at an early stage. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from these sneaky scams.
Conclusion
The iMessage Group Scam is a sophisticated way cybercriminals use to get your money. They lure people into the trap with tempting job offers and the prospect of quick money. Protect yourself by remaining skeptical, not accepting such offers and taking appropriate security precautions on your devices.
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Source:
Net world
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1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )