{"id":221177,"date":"2023-10-23T02:27:00","date_gmt":"2023-10-23T02:27:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=221177"},"modified":"2024-02-10T04:36:51","modified_gmt":"2024-02-10T04:36:51","slug":"youve-won-an-iphone-15-scam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/youve-won-an-iphone-15-scam\/","title":{"rendered":"Beware the &#8220;You&#8217;ve Won an iPhone 15!&#8221; Scam &#8211; It&#8217;s A Phishing Trap!\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The release of the iPhone 15 lineup has brought with it a new wave of phishing scams seeking to capitalize on people&#8217;s desire to get the latest Apple gadgets. One such scam purports to give away free iPhone 15 devices through fraudulent contests and surveys.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3327153091\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309684--placement_360520\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3957935887\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n<p>This detailed guide will uncover how the \u201cYou\u2019ve WON an iPhone 15!\u201d phishing scam works, provide tips to avoid falling victim, and instructions on what to do if you took the bait.<\/p>\n<div id='gallery-1' class='gallery galleryid-221177 gallery-columns-1 gallery-size-full'><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Wallamart-iPhone-scam.jpg'><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"746\" height=\"401\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Wallamart-iPhone-scam.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Wallamart-iPhone-scam.jpg 746w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Wallamart-iPhone-scam-300x161.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 746px) 100vw, 746px\" title=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iPhone-tmobile-scam.jpg'><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"744\" height=\"404\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iPhone-tmobile-scam.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iPhone-tmobile-scam.jpg 744w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/iPhone-tmobile-scam-300x163.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 744px) 100vw, 744px\" title=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/BestbutIphone-Scam.jpg'><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"756\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/BestbutIphone-Scam.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/BestbutIphone-Scam.jpg 756w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/BestbutIphone-Scam-300x159.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 756px) 100vw, 756px\" title=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/figure>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4083268168\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309746-ad_309691-placement_360521\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"4456629336\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of the Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The \u201cYou\u2019ve WON an iPhone 15!\u201d phishing scam relies on the excitement around Apple\u2019s latest iPhone models to trick unsuspecting users into providing personal information and payment details.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad606237748\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381396-ad_309691-placement_360566\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1471373341\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers send text messages, pop-up ads, or emails pretending to be from well-known retailers like BestBuy, Walmart, T-Mobile, Costco, AT&amp;T, and Amazon. These messages congratulate the recipient on winning an iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, or iPhone 15 Pro Max in a special giveaway or contest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To claim the \u201cprize\u201d, victims are directed to click on a link which leads to a fake website styled to look like a customer survey for the spoofed brand. The scam page will request personal and financial information ostensibly to cover shipping fees and taxes for the free phone.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"743\" height=\"535\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Amazon-iPhone-Scam-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-221183\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Amazon-iPhone-Scam-1.jpg 743w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Amazon-iPhone-Scam-1-300x216.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 743px) 100vw, 743px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In reality, the promised iPhones don\u2019t exist. The scammers are simply trying to steal personal and financial data to commit identity fraud or credit card theft.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad206481363\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309686-ad_309691-placement_360569\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6935453015\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This scam is particularly devious because it preys on people\u2019s desire to get something for free. But as the saying goes, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. No legitimate company is handing out free iPhone 15 devices to random strangers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4215807955\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309747-ad_309691-placement_360587\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9589536513\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How the Scam Works Step-by-Step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how the \u201cYou\u2019ve WON an iPhone 15!\u201d phishing scam unfolds:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Receiving the Hook Message<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scam starts with the victim receiving an unsolicited text message, pop-up browser ad, or email about winning a free iPhone 15.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1424548667\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381401-ad_309691-placement_360573\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5315249587\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The messages are made to look like they are from major retailers, cell phone providers, or Apple itself. Some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A text message stating \u201cCongratulations! You\u2019ve won an iPhone 15 Pro Max in the BestBuy Anniversary Giveaway! Claim your prize now: [malicious link]\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A pop-up browser ad with the headline \u201cAmazon is giving away 100 iPhone 15 phones RIGHT NOW. Click here to take our quick survey and receive your free iPhone 15 256GB today\u2026before we run out!\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An email entitled \u201cHurry! Claim your free iPhone 15 Pro from the AT&amp;T 112th Anniversary Raffle\u201d with a message congratulating you on being selected as a winner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The messages will typically include the branding, logos, and messaging styles of the spoofed companies. This makes the free iPhone offer look legitimate at first glance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In some cases, the messages add fabricated urgency with claims that supplies of the free phones are limited. They\u2019ll say things like \u201cact now before time runs out!\u201d to pressure victims into clicking the claim link quickly.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3906838375\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381404-ad_309691-placement_381406\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8735619847\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Taking the Phishing Survey<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The claim link inside the hook message redirects to a carefully crafted phishing site designed to look like a customer survey for the impersonated brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything from the domain name to the branding will match the company &#8211; with the goal being to avoid raising red flags. So a scam claim link purporting to be from T-Mobile may go to a site that looks very much like \u201cT-Mobile-Survey.com\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The phishing survey page will congratulate you again on winning the iPhone and provide fake contest details to build credibility.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad377118225\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360582-ad_309691-placement_360581\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9971336976\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll then be asked to complete a series of questions before you can claim your \u201cprize\u201d. These questions trick users into handing over personally identifiable information the scammers can use to steal identities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Questions found on these fake survey forms include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full name<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Home address<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Email address<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Date of birth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Credit card number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Social Security Number<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The surveys are short, usually around 5-10 questions. The scammers want to collect your information quickly before you realize it\u2019s a scam.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad312452278\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360567-ad_309691-placement_360771\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6224621518\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some versions of the survey scam add countdown timers to the page, indicating the iPhone prizes are extremely limited. This places pressure on victims to rapidly fill out the questionnaire before time expires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Entering Payment Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After completing the phishing survey, victims reach the final step &#8211; entering payment details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A message appears stating there is a small shipping, handling, and taxes fee required to claim the \u201cfree\u201d iPhone 15. Prices are usually between $5-10 to seem more legitimate.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1350280322\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360571-ad_309691-placement_360772\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5867729999\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers don\u2019t ask for large sums because that would be an obvious red flag. Small fees seem reasonable and help convince victims they really are just paying delivery costs for a free device.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The victim is instructed to enter credit card information to process the order. In addition to the card number, they are prompted to input:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Card expiration date<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CVV security code<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ZIP code<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some versions of the scam even go as far as mimicking PayPal, Apple Pay, or Amazon Pay portals.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2684260386\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360576-ad_309691-placement_360773\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6594472392\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With all the necessary account credentials entered, the scammers can now conduct financial fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: The Let Down<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After submitting payment details, victims are redirected to a generic-looking confirmation page thanking them for participating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It says the free iPhone is on its way and will arrive shortly.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2742958191\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360583-ad_309691-placement_360774\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8849826992\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But of course, the phone never comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At this point, the scammers have what they want &#8211; your personal information, financial details, and money from fake fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4255580137\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360584-ad_309691-placement_360775\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3952847241\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Victims realize they\u2019ve been manipulated, but it\u2019s too late. The scammers delete their fake sites and disappear with the stolen data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All that the unlucky victims are left with is lost money and the harsh reality that free iPhones aren\u2019t just given away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3267361913\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309748-ad_309691-placement_360588\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3906789406\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Spot iPhone 15 Phishing Emails<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers regularly send phishing emails claiming you won a free iPhone 15. Stay alert for these signs of fraudulent iPhone emails:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Check the Sender&#8217;s Email Address<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A real Apple email would come from apple.com or an official domain &#8211; not something random like app-le.com or apple-gifts.xyz. Hoover over links to reveal the actual URL that&#8217;s hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also look for misspellings of the brand name that seem legit at first glance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Look for Poor Spelling and Grammar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Like text scams, phishing emails contain typos, awkward phrases, and grammatical errors. Messages from major brands like BestBuy or AT&amp;T should be flawless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Verify Your Personal Details<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legitimate emails won&#8217;t ask for lots of personal details upfront. Delete any email claiming you won a prize but requiring your full name, address, date of birth, etc. right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Pressuring Language<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Phishing emails urge immediate action to claim your prize now or lose it forever. Subject lines say things like &#8220;Claim Your iPhone 15 Today Before Time Runs Out&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But real corporate giveaways don&#8217;t force snap decisions under false deadlines. Delete these overly pushy emails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. No Logos or Branding<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Authentic emails contain official logos, fonts, and color schemes of the brand. Check for missing or lower-quality images that don&#8217;t match the company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Odd Attachments<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never open attachments from unknown emails, especially with generic names like &#8220;Document.pdf&#8221; or &#8220;Photo.zip&#8221;. They can contain malware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. You Can&#8217;t Win a Contest You Didn&#8217;t Enter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Step back and ask yourself if you really entered an iPhone giveaway with the merchant sending the email. If you didn&#8217;t, it can&#8217;t be legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay vigilant against slick phishing emails trying to trick you into giving up personal information for fake rewards. Major retailers don&#8217;t send unsolicited emails claiming you won free iPhones out of the blue. Use healthy skepticism when evaluating all prize emails to protect yourself from identity theft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2268562622\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_318930-ad_309691-placement_360589\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3818335085\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Spot iPhone 15 Text Message Scams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to emails and online ads, scammers are sending iPhone 15 phishing scams via SMS text messages. With text scams on the rise, it&#8217;s crucial to know how to spot fraudulent messages claiming you won a free iPhone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are 5 tips to identify iPhone 15 text scams:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Watch for Poor Spelling and Grammar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Text scams tend to be riddled with spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. The messages may say something like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;CONGRATULATIONS!!! You&#8217;ve wonned an iPhone 15 Pro Max in are Apple Giveaway! Claim you&#8217;re prize here: [malicious link]&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The poor English is a clear red flag you&#8217;re dealing with scammers, not a legitimate corporation. Real companies proofread and spell check their texts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Look for Odd Links<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Take a close look at the claim link &#8211; does it match the brand sending the text? For example, if the message pretends to be from Verizon, but the link goes to a misspelled or suspicious domain, it&#8217;s phishing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scam claim links examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>reward-zone.verizon[.]com<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>verizon-gift.claim-hub[.]xyz<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">[.] indicates the domain extension was changed to protect victims. But real Verizon links should go to verizon.com\/something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Verify the Sender<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">iPhone 15 text scams spoof real phone numbers, so contacts alone aren\u2019t enough. Open the text and look at the sender name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cApple Inc\u201d and \u201cT-Mobile Rewards\u201d sound legitimate, but are easy to fake. Contact the company directly to verify if a text is authentic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Watch for Pressure Tactics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Phishing texts use time pressure and manufactured scarcity to get you to act without thinking. Watch for urgent wording like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;Claim now! Just 100 iPhone 15 phones left for this giveaway!&#8221;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;Hurry, this offer ends today! You must claim your iPhone 15 now or lose it forever.&#8221;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s a manipulation technique to get you clicking without evaluating the legitimacy of the message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Offer is Too Good to Be True<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask yourself &#8211; would Verizon\/Apple\/Amazon really text total strangers and give away the latest $1000 iPhone for free? The answer is no. If an offer seems too good to be true, it always is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No legitimate company hands out brand new phones out of the blue. Delete obvious scam texts promising free iPhone 15s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay vigilant for these telltale signs of SMS iPhone phishing scams. Legitimate companies don&#8217;t pressure you to click shady links and provide personal information for supposed &#8220;free gifts&#8221;. When in doubt, contact the sender directly through an official channel to verify an offer. Trust your instincts to help avoid text message scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3353699399\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381388-ad_309691-placement_381390\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3191649120\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Detect iPhone 15 Pop-up Scams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to texts and emails, the iPhone 15 scam relies on fake pop-up ads and malvertising. Pop-ups that open saying you won a free iPhone 15 are phishing attempts to collect your data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Watch for these signs of fraudulent pop-up ads:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Check the URL<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hover over the claim link in the pop-up. Does the URL match the advertised brand? For example, an Apple pop-up should go to apple.com, not app1es.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Poor Spelling and Grammar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pop-up scams have typos, awkward phrasing, and bad grammar just like phishing texts and emails. Major corporations don&#8217;t make these mistakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Enormous Sense of Urgency<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scam pop-up ads utilize countdown timers or messages like &#8220;Just 5 free iPhones left!&#8221; to create pressure. But legitimate companies don&#8217;t force you to claim prizes under ridiculous time constraints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Redirects to Another Site<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clicking the link may open a sketchy-looking site instead of taking you directly to the advertised brand&#8217;s website. This is a huge warning sign of malvertising.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. No Way to Close the Pop-up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With real pop-up ads, you can usually close them by clicking the X in the corner. Scam pop-ups often won&#8217;t let you close them, forcing you to click the claim link to exit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. You Didn&#8217;t Enter the Contest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think hard if you ever signed up for a contest sponsored by the advertised business. If not, an ad claiming you won can&#8217;t be legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid clicking on pop-up ads with too-good-to-be-true offers, even if they look authentic at first glance. No major company is giving away iPhone 15s to random website visitors. Stay safe online by always verifying pop-up legitimacy before providing any personal information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad720686153\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381392-ad_309691-placement_381395\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2944237110\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to do if You Fell Victim to the iPhone 15 Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you took the bait and supplied information or payment details to an \u201cYou\u2019ve WON an iPhone 15!\u201d phishing scam, here are the steps to take immediately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Contact Your Bank<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you entered any financial information, including credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Amazon Pay &#8211; your top priority is contacting your bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Report the charges as fraudulent so they can reverse the transactions, block the card from further use, and begin monitoring your account for other suspicious activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This quick action helps minimize losses from the stolen payment data. The sooner your credit card company knows, the better protected you are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Place Fraud Alerts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since phishing scams are aimed at identity theft, you\u2019ll want to put fraud alerts on your credit reports. This warns lenders to take extra precautions before approving new lines of credit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To place fraud alerts, contact the three major credit bureaus:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Equifax &#8211; (888) 766-0008<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experian &#8211; (888) 397-3742<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>TransUnion &#8211; (800) 680-7289<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Initial fraud alerts last for one year and require lenders to verify your identity before issuing credit. Just be aware fraud alerts can slow down legitimate applications since extra steps are required. But it\u2019s a prudent precaution after falling for a phishing scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Monitor Your Accounts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep a very close eye on all your financial accounts over the next few months. Watch for any unauthorized charges no matter how small. Early detection of criminal activity makes it easier to halt damages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be sure to review:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Credit cards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Online payment services (PayPal, Venmo, etc)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Retail sites where you have profiles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance and medical accounts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammers may sell your information to other cybercriminals, who could dip into your accounts months after the fact. Persistent monitoring gives you the best odds of thwarting secondary misuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: Change Passwords<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you reused passwords across multiple accounts, make sure to change them. The scammers may gain access to other profiles with the same login credentials you entered on the phishing site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To avoid this scenario:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Create unique, complex passwords for every account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a password manager app to track them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turn on two-factor authentication when possible.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This turns each account into a walled fortress, preventing the iPhone 15 scam from leading to more extensive identity theft down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: Watch for Suspicious Emails<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Double check incoming emails going forward, especially those requesting personal information or linking to login portals. The phishing site might have been a gateway to install malware on your computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be wary of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Emails from unknown senders<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Messages with poor spelling\/grammar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Links to strange websites<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attachments from unfamiliar contacts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Delete such suspicious emails immediately. They could expose you to account breaches, wire transfer demands posing as friends or family, or ransomware attacks that encrypt your system until a bitcoin payment is made.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay vigilant since your email address is now on scammer lists ripe for ongoing targeting. Don\u2019t let your guard down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Report the Scam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To help authorities track down the scammers, file reports about the iPhone 15 phishing scam with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>FTC &#8211; Report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>FBI IC3 &#8211; Submit Internet crime reports at www.ic3.gov.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apple &#8211; Report phishing emails to reportphishing@apple.com.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cell Provider &#8211; Report spoofed text scams to your provider.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brands Impersonated &#8211; If the scam used a brand like Walmart or BestBuy, contact their customer service teams directly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your information joins other victim reports which law enforcement uses to trace these criminal operations, building stronger cases against them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By reporting, you also help raise awareness of the scam impacting others. The more vigilant consumers are, the less profitable these scams become for cyber thieves.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2>Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware<\/h2> <p>If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with <strong>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free<\/strong> is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.<\/p> <p><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.<\/p> <div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Mac<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Windows\"> <h3 id=\"windowsh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows<\/h3> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes<\/p> <p>Download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Windows<\/strong> using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.<\/p> <div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\"\/><\/figure> <strong><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open('https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free');\">MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS DOWNLOAD LINK<br \/>\n<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)<\/em><\/div><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u00a0<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n\n<p>After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. <strong>Double-click on the MBSetup file<\/strong> to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a <strong>User Account Control<\/strong> pop-up appears, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to continue the Malwarebytes installation.<\/p>\n\n \n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n \n\n \n  \n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p> \n\n<p>When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process. <\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \n  <li>\n    <p>You&#8217;ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you&#8217;re installing the program on\u2014select either &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221; as appropriate, then click on <strong>Next<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the &#8220;Welcome to Malwarebytes&#8221; screen.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, simply click on the <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> option to start the program.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Enable &#8220;Rootkit scanning&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes&#8217; ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the &#8220;Settings&#8221; gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285942\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the settings menu, enable the &#8220;Scan for rootkits&#8221; option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"841\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285943\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg 841w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 841px) 100vw, 841px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the &#8220;Dashboard&#8221; button in the left pane to get back to the main screen. \n\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.<\/p> <p>To start a scan, click the <strong>Scan<\/strong> button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285941\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg 849w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine detected malware<\/p>\n<p>Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program&#8217;s quarantine. \n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n  <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your computer.<\/p>\n  <p>When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n <p>Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.<\/p> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Run a computer scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eset.com\/us\/home\/online-scanner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ESET Online Scanner<\/a><\/strong><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Malware Removal Assistance for Windows\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Windows Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n <\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Mac\"> <h3 id=\"mach3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Mac<\/h3> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Mac.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong>&nbsp;by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><\/figure><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1011lvqrV\/creativeref:1011l100234\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Mac)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Double-click on the Malwarebytes setup file.<\/p>\n<p>When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the <em>Downloads<\/em> folder.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98734 alignnone\" title=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" width=\"750\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-300x170.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.<\/p>\n<p>When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes for Mac Installer<\/em> which will guide you through the installation process. Click &#8220;<strong>Continue<\/strong>&#8220;, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98735 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"532\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98736 alignnone\" title=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98737 alignnone\" title=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the <em>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/em> screen. Click the <strong>&#8220;Get started&#8221;<\/strong> button.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>The Malwarebytes <em>Welcome<\/em> screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either <strong>Personal Computer<\/strong> or <strong>Work Computer<\/strong>.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98740 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg\" alt=\"Select Personal Computer or Work Computer mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"537\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Scan&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the &#8220;<strong>Scan<\/strong>&#8221; button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98733 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Click on Scan button to start a system scan Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98739 alignnone\" title=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan your computer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg\" alt=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan for malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Quarantine&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98732 alignnone\" title=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg\" alt=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine to remove malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart computer.<\/p> <p>Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98738 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes For Mac requesting to restart computer\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/><\/p> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n <p>After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.<\/p> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mac-malware-removal-help-support.183\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Android\"> <h3 id=\"androidh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/h3> <p>Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don&#8217;t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.<\/p>\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Android.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Android<\/strong> by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=org.malwarebytes.antimalware&#038;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.<\/p>\n<p>In the Google Play Store, tap &#8220;<strong>Install<\/strong>&#8221; to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106940\" title=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg\" alt=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation process has finished, tap &#8220;<strong>Open<\/strong>&#8221; to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106941\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes for Android - Open App\" width=\"292\" height=\"578\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process<\/p>\n<p>When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes Setup Wizard<\/em> which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options.<br \/>This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106944\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" width=\"292\" height=\"577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;<strong>Got it<\/strong>&#8221; to proceed to the next step.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106945\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on &#8220;<strong>Give permission<\/strong>&#8221; to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106946\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" width=\"292\" height=\"570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3-154x300.jpg 154w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;Allow&#8221; to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106947\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" width=\"292\" height=\"573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7-153x300.jpg 153w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/p>\n<p>You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106939\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes fix issue\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>Click on &#8220;<strong>Update database<\/strong>&#8221; to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on &#8220;<strong>Run full scan<\/strong>&#8221; to perform a system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106948\" title=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone\" width=\"291\" height=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg 291w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106943\" title=\"Malwarebytes scanning phone for malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes scanning Android for Vmalware\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Remove Selected&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the &#8220;<strong>Remove Selected<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106942\" title=\"Tap on the Remove button to get rid of malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Remove malware from your phone\" width=\"760\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg 760w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware-300x237.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your phone.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n <hr \/> <p>When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.<\/p> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Restore your phone to factory settings by going to <em>Settings &gt; General management &gt; Reset &gt; Factory data reset.<\/em><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mobile-malware-removal-help-support.165\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div> <p>After cleaning your device, it\u2019s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>AdGuard<\/strong><\/a>. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions About the iPhone 15 Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the phishing scam offering free iPhone 15 devices:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are the messages saying I won a free iPhone 15 real?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Apple and major retailers like BestBuy, Walmart, etc. are not sending unsolicited messages claiming you won free iPhones. This is always a scam tactic to steal personal information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I actually win a free iPhone 15?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You cannot legitimately win a random iPhone giveaway you never entered. The scam ads falsely claim you were already selected as the winner. Real contests require you to opt-in and register first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is it safe to click on the link to claim the iPhone?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, never click on links in free iPhone messages. They send you to fake lookalike sites designed to steal your data through phishing surveys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If I pay a small shipping fee, will they really send me the free iPhone 15?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. There is no actual iPhone. The scammers are just trying to steal your money along with your personal information. You&#8217;ll receive nothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I tell if an iPhone message is real or fake?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Real messages have perfect spelling\/grammar, come from official domains, use legitimate branding, and don&#8217;t pressure urgency. Scams do the opposite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What do the scammers want from the phishing survey?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The surveys ask for your PII, account logins, and financial data to steal identities, breach accounts, and commit payment fraud. Never enter anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should I do if I already provided my information?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Immediately contact banks, place fraud alerts at credit bureaus, monitor your accounts closely, change passwords, and watch for other phishing attempts. File official reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can I avoid iPhone 15 scams in the future?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay skeptical of too-good-to-be-true offers, ignore messages pressuring urgency, verify senders, avoid clicking unknown links, and screen pop-ups carefully. Trust your instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be cautious entering any sensitive information online. Legitimate companies don&#8217;t offer free iPhones out of the blue. Use healthy skepticism and vigilance to protect yourself from these phishing scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The release of Apple\u2019s iPhone 15 lineup has introduced a dangerous new phishing scam promising free devices that instead steal personal information and money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Savvy consumers avoid clicking on suspicious links in messages about free products. Remember &#8211; Apple and retailers don\u2019t hand out high-end phones to random strangers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay guarded for phishing scams when hot new devices come out. Check site URLs for authenticity and look for spoofed branding on claim forms. No legitimate company needs your Social Security number or full date of birth to give you a free product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you did fall victim and entered sensitive information, take immediate steps to freeze your credit and financial accounts. File reports to protect others from being scammed going forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Staying vigilant for clever social engineering techniques makes you immune to \u201cYou\u2019ve WON an iPhone 15!\u201d frauds trying to profit off human vulnerabilities. Use good digital hygiene and don\u2019t let dreams of free tech put your identity and finances at risk.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The release of the iPhone 15 lineup has brought with it a new wave of phishing scams seeking to capitalize on people&#8217;s desire to get the latest Apple gadgets. One such scam purports to give &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Beware the &#8220;You&#8217;ve Won an iPhone 15!&#8221; Scam &#8211; It&#8217;s A Phishing Trap!\u00a0\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/youve-won-an-iphone-15-scam\/#more-221177\" aria-label=\"Read more about Beware the &#8220;You&#8217;ve Won an iPhone 15!&#8221; Scam &#8211; It&#8217;s A Phishing Trap!\u00a0\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":221178,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-221177","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scam-reports","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/221177","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=221177"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/221177\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/221178"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=221177"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=221177"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=221177"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}