7 Warning Signs of iPhone 17 Pro Max Scams on Target Marketplace

Customer Support Phone Phish: Be extremely cautious of unsolicited calls or emails claiming to be from Apple or Target's fraud department regarding a supposed charge or issue with your iPhone 17 Pro Max. Scammers will impersonate support staff to trick you into revealing personal information, Apple ID credentials, or payment details. They often create a sense of urgency, urging immediate action to prevent account suspension or unauthorized charges.

Fake 'Limited Edition' Pricing and Phishing Sites: Scammers frequently create fake websites or listings that mimic official Apple or Target pages, advertising the iPhone 17 Pro Max at unrealistically low prices or as 'limited edition' offers. Their goal is to lure you into entering payment details on a fraudulent site, which are then stolen. Always verify the URL and stick to official channels.

Unauthorized Third-Party Warranty Scams: Be wary of offers for third-party warranties, especially if they are aggressively pushed or seem too good to be true. These can be fronts for scams where sellers collect payment but provide no legitimate coverage, or they may use the opportunity to gather your personal information.

Target App Impersonation: Scammers may send fake communications that appear to be from the Target app, warning of unusual activity or offering suspicious deals. These messages often contain malicious links designed to steal your login credentials or personal data. Always open the official Target app directly to check for any notifications or offers.

Fake Apple Receipt Scams: Some listings might include images of seemingly legitimate Apple receipts for an iPhone 17 Pro Max. These are often fabricated to add a false sense of legitimacy to a fraudulent sale. Always be skeptical of sellers who rely heavily on digital documentation that can be easily faked.

Stolen or Blacklisted Devices: A significant risk when buying high-value electronics, especially on peer-to-peer platforms, is purchasing a device that has been reported stolen or is otherwise blacklisted by the carrier or manufacturer. These phones may appear functional initially but can be remotely disabled. Always ensure the seller can provide a clear history and proof of ownership.

Counterfeit Products: Be aware of the possibility of receiving a counterfeit iPhone 17 Pro Max. These devices may look similar but are built with inferior components and run on different operating systems. Scammers may use authentic-looking serial numbers or warranty information to deceive buyers.