Apple is looking for iPhone 5 testers? It's a scam!

Cybercriminals are using a so-called "new iPhone" as the latest lure in an old scam to get the personal data of Internet users.

 

Security firm Sophos noted several instances of people getting a message that Apple is looking for "testers" for a supposed upcoming iPhone 5.

 

"Apple needs iPhone5 testers! The first 1000 users who visit [LINK] and enter code 4444 will get to test & keep the new iPhone5," it quoted the message as saying.

 

But Sophos pointed out such a promotion should raise suspicions as Apple does not conduct public tests of its upcoming products.

 

It added Apple has not announced anything close to an iPhone 5.

 

Thus, it said recipients who fall for the scam "have close to zero chance of receiving a free smartphone."

 

"Instead, you're being duped into handing over your personal information which could be used for, well.. who knows what. In the past, we've seen the fraudsters earn commission through the traffic they bring to an online survey, or signed-up for an expensive premium rate service," it said.

 

Worse, Sophos said such a scheme could be used for stealing personal information, or gathering data that will later be used against the recipient. — TJD, GMA News