Likewise Device Protection (Brightstar Corp) scam

Incident Summary: Pattern of Non-Conforming/Counterfeit Hardware Fulfillment, Systemic Diagnostic Failures, and Unilateral Dispute Closures Overview of Incident: This is a consumer warning outlines deceptive equipment fulfillment and claims handling practices under device protection plans managed by Boost Mobile and Likewize Device Protection (formerly Brightstar Corp.). Consumers should be aware that paid protection plans and direct retail fulfillment may involve non-genuine or altered Apple hardware, creating severe coverage and warranty risks. Chronological Evidence & Deceptive Practices: Original Purchase of Non-Genuine Hardware (March 18, 2024): The initial device purchased directly from Boost Mobile on March 18, 2024, contained non-genuine Apple components. System diagnostics on the original device triggered internal warnings indicating unverified parts, establishing that non-conforming hardware was distributed. Apple Diagnostics & Coverage Rejection Risks: When a device containing non-genuine or unauthorized components is evaluated by Apple Service or returned under official diagnostic inspections, Apple flags the hardware as non genuine/counterfeit. Returning a carrier-supplied phone containing unverified parts to an official Apple channel or insurance pool jeopardizes the consumer's status, as Apple will not service or honor warranties on modified hardware. Likewise Brightstar Corp, Non-Conforming Replacement Hardware Delivery: Following a claim filed under Boost Mobile paid insurance protection plan (Boost Protect) the replacement device delivered by Likewize, also failed to provide genuine Apple equipment. Diagnostic checks under iOS Settings generated immediate system flags ("Unknown Part"), repeating the pattern of providing non-conforming hardware under a paid policy. Unconsented Account Credits: When these technical hardware issues were formally reported, corporate representatives unilaterally applied a $168.00 credit to the carrier account without consumer consent. Despite explicit written rejection of this credit, the business attempted to log the forced adjustment as a final settlement to close the file. Unilateral Electronic Disbursement Attempts: Likewize (Boost Protect) subsequently issued an unsolicited $579.99 virtual E disbursement card to force closure of the claim while denying replacement equipment. Under commercial standards, redeeming such digital disbursements operates as an automatic settlement ("accord and satisfaction"), waiving consumer rights to pursue full remediation. Consumer Warning Signs & Protective Steps: Verify Built-in iOS Diagnostics: Check Settings > General > About on both brand-new and replacement iPhones immediately. If an "Unknown Part" flag appears, the hardware contains non-genuine components) Apple Diagnostic Risks: Be aware that submitting a carrier-supplied device with non-genuine parts to Apple will result in system flags, rejected service, or potential confiscation/denial by official service channels.