Apple is warning iPhone users about a growing scam that exploits FaceTime video calls to steal money and personal data.
The company says that cybercriminals are using FaceTime calls and its invitation links to carry out phishing and fraud attacks, pretending to be bank employees, technical support teams, or official bodies, and sometimes impersonating people who have romantic relationships with the victims.
Scammers rely on video calls to give their operations a more credible appearance, as direct audio and video communication may make the victim more willing to believe the caller's identity, even though the FaceTime app does not verify the identity of the user making the call.
Many of these scams begin with a text message claiming there is unusual activity on a bank account or credit card, and then the scammer asks the victim to move to a FaceTime call with someone claiming to be an anti-fraud specialist to conduct what he calls a "verification process."
During the call, the scammer tries to convince the victim to share their device screen while logging into online banking, making a money transfer, or entering one-time security codes. Once they obtain this information, the criminals can access accounts or use the data for theft.
Apple warned its users against responding to such requests, emphasizing that authorized company employees do not make unsolicited FaceTime calls to ask for passwords, verification codes, or any sensitive information. Users were urged to end any call requesting such data and report it.
Scammers also exploit the names of well-known tech companies like Apple and Microsoft by sending fake security alerts claiming a device has been hacked or infected with malware. They then ask the victim for permission to scan the device via video call or install remote access software, granting them control over the device and associated accounts.
These methods have extended to impersonating government agencies, as some fraudsters claim to represent the police or law enforcement agencies, use video calls to increase persuasiveness, and may display fake documents or badges, then falsely accuse victims of committing crimes or having arrest warrants against them in order to extort money from them.
The Federal Trade Commission confirmed that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not ask people to pay money immediately to avoid arrest, nor do they require payment via cryptocurrency, gift cards, payment apps, or bank transfers.
Emotional scams have also become more prevalent with the use of FaceTime, where scammers make short video calls to build a relationship of trust with victims before asking for money, investments, or gift cards.
Security experts warn that some criminals are using modern techniques, including pre-recorded videos, digital filters, and artificial intelligence tools, to make their scams more convincing.
Consumer protection experts advise against sharing your screen during unwanted FaceTime calls, providing passwords, verification codes, or bank account details, and refusing any request to transfer funds to a so-called "secure account."
In case of receiving a suspicious call, it is recommended to hang up immediately and contact the bank, Apple, or the relevant official entity directly through the contact numbers on their official websites, and not to use any numbers provided by the caller.
