Scammers Exploit Apple App Store with Fake Crypto Trading Apps
Fraudsters are leveraging aged Apple developer accounts to upload counterfeit crypto trading applications on the App Store, mimicking legitimate Web3 platforms. These malicious apps, strategically renamed and redesigned, appear authentic in search results—ensnaring unsuspecting users who subsequently lose funds upon deposit. Recent incidents include two victims losing $28,000 collectively.
The scam, highlighted by crypto investigator PixOnChain via X, underscores growing sophistication in social engineering tactics. By repurposing dormant developer accounts, bad actors circumvent Apple's review processes, exploiting the trust associated with the App Store ecosystem. Security analysts note a marked increase in such incidents over recent weeks.
