Apple is facing fresh legal scrutiny after three cryptocurrency investors accused the company of allowing a fraudulent Bitcoin wallet onto the App Store. The lawsuit claims the fake application tricked users into revealing sensitive wallet recovery phrases, leading to losses totaling $1.8 million.
The case adds to growing concerns about crypto-related scams targeting trusted digital marketplaces. Moreover, it raises new questions about how technology companies review applications before making them available to millions of users. The complaint argues that users relied on Apple’s reputation when downloading the application.
The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in California, claims Apple failed to properly screen and monitor applications distributed through its App Store. The disputed app reportedly copied the identity of Sparrow Wallet, although the legitimate Bitcoin wallet does not offer an iOS version.
Consequently, victims entered their 12-word or 24-word recovery phrases, allowing scammers to access and transfer their Bitcoin holdings. James Ramirez, Christopher Ellis, and Jalen Delgado reportedly lost about $875,000, $840,000, and $120,000 between May and August 2025.
Besides seeking damages, the plaintiffs argue Apple violated California consumer protection laws by failing to maintain adequate safeguards. Additionally, they contend Apple’s long-standing emphasis on App Store safety encouraged users to trust fraudulent software.
Apple has since removed the fake applications. However, the legal dispute could increase pressure on major technology platforms to strengthen app verification and improve protections against sophisticated cryptocurrency scams.
