Apple's iPhone 17 Release Marred by Crypto Scam
On September 10, 2025, Apple unveiled its highly anticipated iPhone 17, with the new Air and Pro models taking center stage. However, hundreds of thousands of viewers tuning in to Apple's live stream were targeted by scammers exploiting the hype around major tech events.
According to a warning issued by Guardio's security team, several fake YouTube live streams broadcast deepfake videos of Tim Cook at the same time as Apple's live event. The malicious content was designed to trick viewers into scanning a QR code on screen with their iPhone, which directed them to a contract that promised "security, simplicity, and empowerment all in one."
"It's a classic crypto scam," said Zak Doffman, contributor for Forbes, who spoke with Guardio's security team. "The scammers are exploiting the trust and excitement surrounding major tech events like Apple's live stream. They're using deepfake technology to create convincing videos of Tim Cook, making it seem like he's endorsing a legitimate contract."
Doffman explained that scanning the QR code would have led viewers to interact with a malicious contract that could not be altered, corrupted, or reversed. "This is exactly what Apple promised in its own marketing materials," Doffman noted. "The scammers are essentially using Apple's own words against them to trick people into giving away their sensitive information."
Background context reveals that this is not an isolated incident. Scammers often exploit major tech events to target viewers, using fake live streams and deepfake videos to create a sense of urgency and trust.
"This is a major problem with Apple's iPhone encryption," Doffman said. "The company has promised users that its devices are secure, but in reality, they're vulnerable to these types of attacks."
In response to the incident, Apple issued a statement saying it was "aware of the issue" and was working to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As for Guardio's security team, they are urging viewers to be cautious when interacting with live streams and QR codes. "We advise people not to click on suspicious links or scan QR codes from unknown sources," said a spokesperson for the company.
The incident highlights the need for increased awareness about online security and the importance of verifying information before taking any action. As technology continues to evolve, it's essential that users stay vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from these types of attacks.
Current Status: Apple has issued a statement acknowledging the issue and promising to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. Guardio's security team is urging viewers to be cautious when interacting with live streams and QR codes.
Next Developments: As the tech industry continues to evolve, it's likely that we'll see more sophisticated attacks like this one. Users must stay vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from these types of threats. Apple has promised to increase security measures in its devices, but it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be.
Additional Perspectives: Experts say that the incident highlights the need for increased awareness about online security and the importance of verifying information before taking any action. "This is a wake-up call for all of us," said Doffman. "We must take steps to protect ourselves from these types of attacks."
*Reporting by Forbes.*
