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Beware of AI Scams!

From revolutionizing industries, like healthcare and finance, to replacing jobs in publishing and graphics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the world forever. Unfortunately, scammers are loving the sheer power and reach of AI to exploit the vulnerable and unalert. Here’s what you need to know about AI scams and how to protect yourself. 

Types of AI scams

AI scams come in many forms. Here are some of the more common variations.

  • Deepfake scams. In these scams, fraudsters use AI to create highly realistic videos or audio clips, often mimicking the voices and appearances of real people. Scammers use deepfakes to impersonate business executives, family members, political figures or celebrities to trick people into transferring money or revealing sensitive information. For example, a deepfake video of a company’s CEO can instruct an employee to wire funds to a fraudulent account.

  • AI-powered phishing emails. Traditional phishing scams are evolving with the help of AI. Scammers use AI to craft highly personalized and convincing emails that mimic legitimate organizations. These emails often contain fake links or attachments designed to steal personal or financial information. For example, a deepfake email that looks like it’s from your bank or credit union, complete with your name and/or past transaction details, will ask you to verify your account by entering your information.

  • Chatbot impersonation. Here, scammers deploy AI-driven chatbots to impersonate customer service representatives or company officials. These bots engage in real-time conversations, persuading victims to share sensitive information or make payments. For example, a chatbot posing as an ecommerce platform’s support agent will ask for credit card details to “resolve” a payment issue.

  • AI voice cloning. Voice cloning scams involve using AI to replicate someone’s voice, typically a family member or close contact. Scammers use this cloned voice in phone calls to request urgent financial help, claiming emergencies, like hospital bills or legal fees. For example, a parent may receive a frantic call allegedly from their child, and the voice matches their child and asks for an immediate money transfer due to a supposed accident or other emergency.

  • Job offer scams. In these scams, fraudsters use AI to scrape data from job boards and LinkedIn profiles to target job seekers with fake offers. They use automated systems to conduct interviews and request upfront fees for training or equipment. For example, they’ll ask a job hunter to pay a “registration fee” to a scam company that vanishes afterward.

How to spot AI scams

Don’t get caught in an AI scam! Here’s how to spot one: 

  • Unusual and urgent requests. Scammers love to create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into acting without thinking. If someone is demanding immediate action, such as transferring money or providing sensitive data, take a step back to verify their authenticity.

  • Inconsistencies in communication. While AI scams can be sophisticated, there may still be small inconsistencies in tone, grammar or details that don’t align with the purported sender’s usual communication style.

  • Requests for personal information. Legitimate organizations will rarely ask for sensitive information, like passwords, Social Security numbers or credit card details via email, text or phone call.

  • Unverified sources. If you receive communication from a new email address, phone number or chatbot, cross-check it with official contact details listed on the organization’s website or other trusted sources.

How to protect yourself

Here’s how to protect yourself from an AI scam:

  • Verify before you act. Always double-check any request for money or personal information. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact the person or organization directly using official channels.

  • Strengthen cybersecurity. Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your accounts. Keep your software and devices updated to protect against vulnerabilities.

  • Be cautious with AI tools. Avoid sharing sensitive information with AI tools or chatbots unless you are certain of their legitimacy and security.

  • Educate yourself and others. Stay informed about the latest AI scams and share your knowledge with friends and family, especially those folks who may be less tech-savvy.

  • Monitor your accounts. Regularly check your banking and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. Report any discrepancies immediately.

  • Use anti-scam technology. Install reliable antivirus software and consider tools that are specifically designed to detect and block phishing attempts or deepfake content.

  • Report suspicious activity. If you encounter an AI scam, report it to local authorities, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and/or other relevant organizations. This helps prevent others from falling victim.

AI scams may leverage advanced technology, but awareness and caution are always your best defenses. Use the tips outlined here to stay safe!

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