Hangzhou Residents Receive 10086 Text Messages Warning of FaceTime Scams: Disabling the Feature is Safer

Hangzhou Residents Receive 10086 Text Messages Warning of FaceTime Scams: Disabling the Feature is SaferRecently, residents of Hangzhou have been receiving text messages from 10086, a message issued by Hangzhou Public Security, warning them about scams utilizing FaceTime. The message explicitly points out that there has been a surge in scams targeting iPhone users, with Apple's FaceTime feature becoming a primary tool exploited by scammers

Hangzhou Residents Receive 10086 Text Messages Warning of FaceTime Scams: Disabling the Feature is Safer

Recently, residents of Hangzhou have been receiving text messages from 10086, a message issued by Hangzhou Public Security, warning them about scams utilizing FaceTime. The message explicitly points out that there has been a surge in scams targeting iPhone users, with Apple's FaceTime feature becoming a primary tool exploited by scammers.

Scammers often modify their FaceTime nicknames to "XX Public Security Bureau" or "XX Anti-Fraud Center," creating a false sense of official authority. When victims receive such calls, they can easily be misled by the imposter's official identity, leading to panic, loss of composure, and ultimately falling prey to the scammer.

In response to this situation, Apple customer service has also issued a statement confirming that the nickname displayed through FaceTime can indeed be edited by users and is not set by Apple. Apple customer service also emphasizes that the official company will not contact individuals through FaceTime, therefore suggesting that users who rarely use the FaceTime feature should disable it. Even if it is necessary to use it, users should remain vigilant and avoid answering FaceTime calls from strangers.

FaceTime, a network-based video calling app built into Apple phones, allows users to make free video or voice calls with just the recipient's phone number or Apple ID. Due to its reliance on the network, FaceTime bypasses carrier interception, making it a tool exploited by scammers, leading to frequent online fraud incidents.

It's worth noting that this is not the first instance of scams utilizing FaceTime. Previously, anti-fraud centers, communication operators, and even WeChat officials across China have issued reminders through text messages, public accounts, and other channels to warn users about FaceTime call scams.

To avoid becoming victims of fraud, users need to enhance their security awareness and remember the following preventive measures:

• Ignore unfamiliar FaceTime calls: Directly hang up on any FaceTime calls from unknown numbers, and refrain from engaging in any conversation.

• Disable the FaceTime feature: If you rarely use FaceTime, it's recommended to disable it. To do so, open your iPhone "Settings," locate the "FaceTime" option, and choose to disable it.

• Identify official accounts: Legitimate official organizations will not contact individuals via FaceTime, nor will they request personal information or engage in financial transactions in any form. In case of suspicious situations, promptly contact official customer service or consult your local police department.

FaceTime, a convenient communication tool, brings numerous benefits but also offers opportunities for criminals. It is hoped that users will enhance their security awareness and avoid becoming victims of fraud while enjoying the convenience of technology.