How Artificial Intelligence is Being Used in Scams

Artificial intelligence (AI) has improved many aspects of our lives, from smart home devices to advanced medical diagnostics. However, like many powerful tools, AI also has a dark side. Scammers have begun using AI to create more sophisticated, convincing, and harmful scams. Understanding how AI is used in scams is crucial for protecting yourself and your loved ones, especially those in the senior community, as they might not be as aware of how AI can be used.

Deepfake Technology

One of the most concerning uses of AI in scams is through "deepfake" technology. Deepfakes use AI to create highly realistic images, videos, or audio recordings of someone saying or doing something they never actually said or did. Scammers can use this technology to impersonate someone you trust, like a family member, to manipulate you into handing over money or sensitive information.

AI-Powered Phishing

Phishing scams are nothing new, where scammers send fake emails or messages to trick you into revealing personal information. However, AI is making these scams much more challenging to spot. AI can be used to create personalized phishing messages that are tailored to your specific interests, activities, and online behavior.

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By analyzing your social media profiles, email patterns, and online habits, AI can generate messages that appear to come from people you know or companies you trust. These messages can be nearly indistinguishable from the real thing, making it more likely that you'll click on a malicious link or download a harmful attachment.

Voice Cloning

Another AI-driven scam involves voice cloning. AI can now mimic a person’s voice with remarkable accuracy. All it takes is a short sample of someone's voice, even as little as five seconds, and the AI can generate speech that sounds just like them. Scammers use this to make fake phone calls where it sounds like someone you know, like a child or a grandchild, is asking for help, claiming they’re in trouble and need money.

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Imagine receiving a call from what sounds like your grandchild saying they’ve been in an accident and need money for bail. The voice is familiar, the situation is urgent, and you’ve sent money to a scammer before you know it. This is becoming a more common tactic because of how convincing voice cloning technology has evolved.

Automated Chatbots

Businesses often use AI-powered “chatbots” (automated chat sessions, which are not human but computers) to provide customer service, but scammers are also using them to trick people. These bots can be programmed to simulate honest conversations and guide victims through a scam, making it seem legitimate.

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For example, a scammer could set up a fake customer service website with a chatbot that helps you "fix" a problem with your account. The bot might ask for your login details, credit card information, or other personal data under the guise of assisting you, all while stealing your information.

Protecting Yourself Against AI-Driven Scams

So, how can you protect yourself from these AI-driven scams? Here are a few tips:

1. Be Skeptical: If something feels off, whether it's a video, a phone call, or a message, take a step back and verify it independently before taking action.
2. Be Wary of “Emergency” Calls: A situation rarely requires an "emergency” payment. Hospitals will not ask for money upfront; lawyers will offer free consultations, and governments/utility companies will always mail asking for payment. Be wary if you get a call saying you need to pay immediately.
3. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scams and how they operate. Attend Stop Scamming workshops and talk with us during our Meet & Greets. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to recognize when something isn’t right.
4. Verify Requests: If you receive a request for money or sensitive information, verify it through another method, such as directly calling the person or company.  If you are on the phone with someone, don’t simply ask them for the number; look it up yourself and call them back.

AI technology is constantly evolving, and unfortunately, the scams use it. You can protect yourself from becoming a victim by staying informed and cautious. Remember, Stay Informed, Stay Safe.

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