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Scammers are creating fake Apple websites with promises of exclusive deals and early access to steal shoppers personal information

• Scammers are creating fake iPhone Duo preorder websites with promises of exclusive deals, early access, and giveaways to steal consumers personal information.

• Some malicious websites may exploit vulnerabilities in outdated iPhones, potentially putting devices at risk simply by visiting the page.

• Experts recommend verifying offers through Apples official website, watching for suspicious links and domains, and keeping devices updated with the latest security patches.

The excitement around a new iPhone can make it tempting to jump on a preorder deal, but scammers are hoping shoppers move too quickly.

With Apple's iPhone Duo orders under way, fraudulent websites are popping up, promising exclusive discounts, early access, and giveaways to lure consumers in. New research from TrendLife uncovered fake iPhone Duo websites designed to steal personal information, including one malicious site that could potentially put vulnerable iPhones at risk simply by visiting the page.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Lynette Owens, vice president of consumer marketing and education at TrendLife, who shared what shoppers should look for to spot these and protect themselves.

Phones are on backorder, scammers are taking advantage

While the new iPhone Duo officially went on sale just a few days ago, the devices are already backordered until the new year. However, this is the perfect scenario for scammers trying to get consumers to quickly make a purchase.

Scammers know that when a highly anticipated product is difficult to get, consumers may be more willing to jump at an offer promising early access, Owens said. They're exploiting that excitement by creating convincing websites that impersonate Apple, advertise exclusive preorders, or promise steep discounts and free devices.

Our researchers at TrendLife have identified suspicious sites and pages capitalizing on Apple's latest product launch. Some are designed to take over a persons Facebook account or deceptively redirect shoppers to affiliate advertising, while others appear designed to collect personal information such as payment details. More concerning, we've also investigated a fake iPhone Duo giveaway site designed to exploit a persons iPhone simply based on the version of iOS it is running; simply visiting the malicious site automatically allows the criminals to attack the phone and potentially put anything accessible by the phone at risk.

Owens explained that these rely on intricate technology, as well as a combination of excitement, urgency, and the fear of missing out to be successful.

Know how to spot a scam

With these , Owens warns consumers to look beyond the usual red flags.

One of the biggest misconceptions about online is that you're only at risk if you enter personal information or download something, she said. Our researchers identified a fake iPhone Duo website that attempted to exploit known iOS vulnerabilities, meaning simply visiting the page could put vulnerable devices at risk.

In todays AI world, malicious websites don't always have obvious warning signs. However, there are still signs of a scam. Owens recommends that consumers look for unfamiliar domains, unusual spelling, or links that don't match the company they claim to represent. Its also important to be especially cautious of shortened URLs or links shared through unsolicited messages and social media ads.

It's also important to remember that HTTPS and the padlock symbol don't guarantee a website is legitimate, Owens said. Keeping devices updated with the latest security patches and using security software and tools is critical to reducing exposure to known vulnerabilities. Reputable, up-to-date security software on any device you use to connect to the internet can flag or block you from visiting websites that have been compromised in some way.

Whats real and whats a scam?

How do you spot a real advertisement from Apple and one thats created by a scammer?

Its not always easy, as scammers can easily replicate branding, product images, and specifications to make fake order pages look convincing, especially with the help of AI.

Consumers should verify promotions through Apple's official website or trusted retailers, especially when a site promises exclusive access or guaranteed reservations for a hard-to-find product, Owens said. Other warning signs include incorrect product details, unclear seller information, suspicious checkout redirects, and countdown timers designed to pressure shoppers into acting quickly.

Anyone can be fooled

Owens explained that the sophistication of these makes it easy for just about anyone to fall victim to them. She said that proactive prevention strategies are the best way to protect yourself and your personal information.

These highlight how online fraud is evolving beyond simply tricking consumers into entering payment information, she said. Scammers are creating increasingly convincing experiences, and in some cases, attempting to exploit vulnerabilities in the devices people use every day.

A new study identifies 35 housing markets where buyers may get more for their money

• MoneyLion identified 35 housing markets where home values are at least $50,000 below their state averages.

• Lower home prices dont always mean a more affordable move, so buyers should consider local incomes, job opportunities, property taxes, insurance, and other costs.

• Experts advise buyers to stick to their budgets, compare buying with renting, and be cautious about adjustable-rate mortgages.

Buying a home can feel out of reach when home prices and mortgage costs make it harder to stay within budget. But that doesn't mean every housing market is equally expensive.

Some cities offer a more affordable alternative to their state's typical home prices, giving buyers new places to consider. MoneyLion recently identified 35 potential hidden gem housing markets based on home values, estimated mortgage costs, household incomes and livability.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Andrew Murray, lead researcher at Gen Digital, about the findings and what homebuyers should know as they search for a place they can afford.

Methodology

To identify the best hidden-gem housing markets of 2026, MoneyLion analyzed cities among the countrys 250 largest housing markets. Using data from the Zillow Home Value Index, researchers selected cities where average single-family home values were at least $50,000 below their states average. Cities also needed a livability score of at least 70, based on AreaVibes data, to remain in the ranking.

MoneyLion then estimated mortgage costs for each city, assuming a 15% down payment and using the national average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac. Researchers scored and weighted four factors: median household income, average mortgage cost, the difference between local and statewide home values, and livability.

Home-value differences and livability each received a weight of 2.00, while household income and mortgage costs each received a weight of 1.00. The scores were combined to determine the final ranking, using data collected through September 23, 2026.

Key findings: Where buyers may find more affordable homes

MoneyLions ranking highlights a wide range of housing markets where home values are lower than their state averages, although affordability varies considerably by location.

• Some cities offer substantially lower home values than their state averages. Visalia, California, ranked second, with an average home value of $400,447 $388,672 below Californias statewide average. Springfield, Massachusetts, also stood out, with average home values $378,190 below its state average.

• The most affordable markets have estimated mortgage costs below $1,000 a month. Akron, Ohio, had the lowest average home value on the list at $139,774. With a 15% down payment, MoneyLion estimated annual mortgage costs at $9,437, or about $786 per month. Lansing, Michigan; Macon, Georgia; and Baltimore, Maryland, were the other three cities with average home values below $200,000.

• Not every hidden gem comes with a low monthly payment. Eight cities had estimated monthly mortgage payments above $2,000. Roseville, California, was the only market with an estimated payment above $3,000, at approximately $3,659 per month.

• Income is another important part of the affordability picture. Erie, Pennsylvania; Akron, Ohio; Rochester, New York; and Syracuse, New York, were the four markets on the list with median household incomes below $50,000 a year. This highlights why buyers should consider local earnings alongside home prices and mortgage costs.

Overall, the findings suggest that buyers willing to look beyond the most expensive markets in their states may find more attainable home prices. However, the ranking is a starting point rather than a guarantee of affordability, since individual budgets and the full costs of homeownership will vary.

The full list

Heres a look at all 35 hidden gem markets from MoneyLions research:

1. Worcester, MA

2. Visalia, CA

3. Pensacola, FL

4. Springfield, MA

5. Syracuse, NY

6. Baltimore, MD

7. Tallahassee, FL

8. Spokane, WA

9. Buffalo, NY

10. Jacksonville, FL

11. Pittsburgh, PA

12. Norfolk, VA

13. Rochester, NY

14. Akron, OH

15. Albany, NY

16. Trenton, NJ

17. Providence, RI

18. Saint Paul, MN

19. Erie, PA

20. Milwaukee, WI

21. Sacramento, CA

22. Richmond, VA

23. Vancouver, WA

24. Pueblo, CO

25. Schenectady, NY

26. Lubbock, TX

27. Roseville, CA

28. Lansing, MI

29. El Paso, TX

30. Greensboro, NC

31. Brownsville, TX

32. Macon, GA

33. Tacoma, WA

34. San Antonio, TX

35. Corpus Christi, TX

Should first-time homebuyers target these areas?

Murray said it may be worth it for first-time homebuyers to look in these hidden gem markets, but there are some caveats: only if the local job market, services, and lifestyle fit your needs.

These markets may offer lower purchase prices and mortgage payments than their statewide averages, he said. However, affordability alone shouldnt determine the move. One needs to consider employment opportunities, commute costs, schools, healthcare, safety, family support, and whether you expect to stay at least several years.

Some other factors for any homebuyer considering these markets include property taxes and homeowners insurance, HOA fees, and transportation costs if jobs or services are far away.

Murray explained that there are a multitude of factors one needs to consider before moving, and MoneyLions research is more highlighting where home prices are lower than the average.

Will demand increase?

With mortgage rates so high right now, is it likely that homebuyers will soon be priced out of these hidden gem markets?

Murray says its a possibility, but not a guarantee.

Markets that offer relative affordability may attract remote workers, investors, retirees, and buyers priced out of larger cities, he explained. Buyers should treat the ranking as a snapshot, not a prediction of future appreciation.

Advice for homebuyers

Buying a home may feel out of reach for many consumers right now, but Murray has some advice for those who are feeling helpless on the house hunt. Here are his best tips:

• Never overstretch your budget

• Always look at what a total monthly cost will be when you purchase a home (mortgage, hoa, property tax, insurance, etc.)

• Compare buying with renting after including maintenance, taxes, insurance, and transaction costs

• Be wary of signing onto adjusted rate mortgages as, yes the rate could fall, but it could also just as easily rise.

A two-year study found similar results for people drinking either beverage while managing their weight

• A study of 493 adults found that diet drinks and water supported similar weight-loss results over two years.

• Participants in both groups maintained weight loss, even after a year without regular support from a weight-management program.

• The findings suggest diet drinks can be an alternative to sugary beverages without putting weight-loss progress at a disadvantage compared with water.

If you're trying to lose weight, choosing what to drink can feel like another decision to get right. Water is a common choice, but what about diet soda and other drinks sweetened without sugar? Can they fit into a weight-management plan, or is water a better option?

Researchers at the University of Liverpool examined that question in a long-term clinical trial published in the British Journal of Nutrition. The study compared beverages containing non-nutritive sweeteners low- or no-calorie alternatives to sugar with water to see how each affected weight loss and the ability to maintain it.

The research also addresses questions about whether these sweeteners affect appetite or contribute to weight gain over time. The findings offer a longer-term look at how diet drinks compare with water, although they don't mean every beverage choice will produce the same results for everyone.

This study provides the longterm clinical evidence that has been missing from international discussions, researcher Professor Jason Halford said in a news release. For people trying to manage their weight, nonnutritive sweetened beverages offer an effective alternative to sugarsweetened drinksand perform equivalently to water over two years.

How researchers compared water and diet drinks

The SWITCH trial included 493 adults with overweight or obesity. Researchers randomly assigned participants to one of two groups: one drank water, while the other consumed commercially available diet beverages.

Participants were asked to drink at least two servings of their assigned beverage daily. The diet drinks contained sweeteners such as aspartame, acesulfame potassium, and sucralose.

The study lasted 104 weeks, or two years, and included three stages. Participants first completed a 12-week weight-loss program with weekly group meetings. They then moved into a 40-week weight-maintenance phase with monthly support. Finally, they entered a 52-week period of monitoring without the same ongoing assistance.

Researchers measured changes in body weight and other health indicators over time. Of the original 493 participants, 220 completed the full two-year period.

What the results mean for consumers

At the end of the study, participants who drank water had lost an average of 3.7 kilograms (about 8.2 pounds), while those who drank diet beverages had lost 4.8 kilograms (about 10.6 pounds). The difference was not statistically significant, meaning researchers did not find a meaningful difference between the two groups' weight-loss results.

Both groups also maintained their weight loss through the two-year period. Researchers reported improvements in waist and hip measurements, body composition, and several health markers in both groups. Sugar intake decreased in both groups, with a slightly larger reduction among those drinking diet beverages.

For consumers, the takeaway is that water wasn't the only beverage associated with successful long-term weight management in this study. Diet drinks performed similarly, suggesting they may be a reasonable alternative for people looking to cut back on sugary drinks.

There are some limitations to keep in mind. The trial took place at a single location in England, and relatively few participants completed the full two years. The study also examined beverages alongside a structured weight-management program, rather than in isolation.

The findings don't establish that diet drinks are better than water, nor do they mean everyone needs to consume artificially sweetened beverages. Instead, they provide evidence that, for adults participating in a weight-management program, choosing diet beverages rather than water did not lead to significantly different weight-loss results over two years.

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