Being cautious online can go a long way toward protecting you from scams. But scammers now have access to artificial intelligence tools that can make fraudulent messages, phone calls, images, and videos appear much more convincing than they used to. That means some traditional warning signs aren’t as reliable as they once were. A message with perfect grammar, a familiar-looking voice, or a convincing photo isn’t necessarily proof that you’re dealing with a legitimate person or business. Here are six AI-powered scams worth knowing about-and what you can do to make them harder to fall for.
A Phone Call Using a Familiar Voice
AI voice-cloning technology can be used to create remarkably convincing versions of someone’s voice. A scammer may use a recording or other publicly available audio to imitate a family member, friend, executive, or other person you recognize. The call may claim that the person has an emergency and needs money immediately. Because the voice sounds familiar, you may instinctively trust what you’re hearing.
If someone you know calls with an unusual financial emergency, slow the conversation down. Hang up and contact that person directly using a phone number you already have rather than relying on the number that called you.
A Text That Sounds Exactly Like Someone You Know
AI can also help scammers write personalized messages that sound natural and believable. Instead of the awkward wording people may associate with scams, a fraudulent text can look like something your child, spouse, coworker, or friend would actually send. The message might say they’re using a new phone, have lost their wallet, or need help paying an urgent bill. The goal is usually to make you react before you have time to verify the story. Don’t treat familiarity of writing style as proof of identity. If a message involves money, account information, gift cards, passwords, or verification codes, independently contact the person through another channel.
Fake Videos or Video Calls
AI-generated video can make it possible to create convincing images of real people. Scammers may use manipulated videos or deepfakes to impersonate executives, public figures, relatives, or other individuals. A video call can feel particularly convincing because you’re not just receiving a message-you appear to be seeing the person directly. But even visual evidence should not automatically be treated as proof when money or sensitive information is involved.
If a video call involves an unusual request, verify it independently. A separate phone call or a question only the real person would be expected to answer can provide another layer of protection.
Personalized Investment Scams
AI can help scammers produce professional-looking investment pitches, websites, social media posts, and messages tailored to a potential victim. A fraudulent investment opportunity may appear to come from someone knowledgeable about finance or may contain convincing charts, testimonials, and explanations. Some scams may even use AI-generated images or fake online personalities to create the appearance of a successful investor.
Be especially cautious when someone promises unusually high returns, pressures you to act quickly, or asks you to transfer money through an unfamiliar platform. Research the investment independently and avoid making financial decisions based solely on information supplied by the person promoting it.
Fake Customer Service or Bank Messages
Scammers can use AI to create convincing emails and text messages that imitate companies people regularly deal with. A message might claim there’s suspicious activity on your bank account, an issue with a package, or a problem with a subscription. The message may contain polished language and realistic branding, making it difficult to distinguish from a legitimate notification. Instead of clicking the link in the message, open the company’s official website or app yourself. If you believe there’s an issue with your account, contact the organization using a phone number or other contact information you obtained independently.
Fake Documents, Photos, or Proof of Payment
AI-generated images can potentially be used to create fake receipts, identification documents, invoices, payment confirmations, and other materials. A scammer may use these documents to make a transaction appear legitimate or convince you that money has already been sent. This can be particularly risky when buying or selling something online or handling a financial transaction. Don’t rely solely on a screenshot, receipt, or image as proof that money has changed hands. Check your own bank or payment account directly before handing over money, merchandise, personal information, or access to an account.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
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