With today’s launch of the Apple iPhone, scammers and thieves are coming out of the woodwork. ScamBusters.org, a public service website that has helped over 9 million people protect themselves from Internet scams since 1994, offers predictions about the Top 7 online and offline iPhone scams, as well as tips to avoid getting ripped off.
Here Is ScamBusters.org’s List of the Top 7 iPhone Scams:

1. eBay scams: There are already some eBay iPhone scams, even before the launch of the iPhone. Although eBay has done a good job of removing these iPhone listings during the pre-launch, it will be much more difficult to distinguish between real and bogus auctions after the iPhone starts shipping Friday. I’d be shocked if all of these iPhone scams (and most likely several others) don’t materialize in the next week or so – and probably much sooner.
2. Standing in line scams: There are many offers on Craig’s List, eBay and other websites from people willing to spend the day standing in line to help others acquire an iPhone — for a fee. Prices vary widely, and some of these offers are likely outright scams.
3. Scalper scams: Many people will buy iPhones in order to sell them at a higher price, online or offline. ScamBusters.org recommends against paying a premium, since it is possible to order online at the Apple store starting at 6:00 pm on Friday. Further, some scammers will likely take the iPhone out of the box, selling victims only the empty box.
4. Free iPhone scams: While a few of these offers will be legitimate, most are scams. Con artists offer hot items (like designer handbags, plasma TVs, and now the iPhone) as lures to get email addresses and detailed personal information. They make it almost impossible to actually complete all the requirements necessary to get an iPhone. So, at best, people waste time, and at worst, they lose money and/or have their identities stolen.
5. iPhone spam: There will be a flood of iPhone spam. Dealing with these scams is easy: NEVER respond to spam.
6. Fake iPhone websites and phishing scams: There will be fake iPhone websites and phishing iPhone scams, with many variants. However, the intentions of these scammers are all the same: to obtain personal and financial information in order to steal money and/or your identity.
7. Viruses, Trojans and spyware: Before long, there will be viruses, Trojans and spyware supposedly related to the iPhone. Don’t be fooled.
Will we see all of these iPhone scams? “Yes,” according to Dr. Audri G. Lanford, Co-Director of ScamBusters.org. “I’d be shocked if all of these iPhone scams (and most likely several others) don’t materialize in the next week or so – and probably much sooner.”
Originally posted on June 29, 2007 @ 5:59 am