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Artificial intelligence has brought major benefits to everyday life, but it has also opened the door for new kinds of scams. Criminals are now using AI to trick people and businesses into giving up money or personal information.
In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that Americans lost more than $12 billion to fraud in 2023, and experts say AI-driven scams are a growing reason for this rise. Understanding how these scams work can help you protect yourself.
AI Phone Scams and Voice Cloning
One of the fastest-growing forms of fraud is the AI phone scam. Criminals use voice cloning technology to copy someone’s voice—often a friend, relative, or company executive. They can do this with just a few seconds of audio from social media or a voicemail.
The scammer then calls victims and pretends to be that person, asking for money, personal details, or emergency help. These scams are especially dangerous because the cloned voice sounds real. According to a 2024 McAfee survey, one in four Americans has already experienced or knows someone affected by an AI voice scam.
Fake Customer Service and Tech Support Calls
Scammers also use AI voice agents to pretend to be from trusted companies like banks or software providers. They sound professional and use realistic language to convince people to “verify” their accounts or install fake updates.
Once they get access, they steal login information or install malware. Always hang up and call the company directly using a number from its official website. Legitimate businesses rarely call you out of the blue asking for sensitive information.
Deepfake Videos and Impersonation
AI can also create fake videos, called deepfakes, that show people saying or doing things they never did. These videos are used in online scams, fake ads, or social media posts to spread false information or damage reputations.
Some scammers even use deepfakes of company executives to trick employees into sending money or data. These attacks are becoming more common in corporate environments and can be hard to detect without training or technology tools.
AI-Generated Phishing Emails and Texts
Phishing emails are not new, but AI has made them far more convincing. Scammers now use AI to write perfect grammar, mimic company styles, and include realistic logos. These messages are sent to you via SMS, email or whatsapp scams – and they may ask you to reset a password, confirm an account, or pay an overdue bill. See how to protect yourself from whatsapp scams.
Some texts even include AI-generated links that lead to fake websites designed to steal information. If something feels off or too urgent, take a moment to double-check before clicking.
Fake Job Offers and Online Scams
AI tools can quickly create fake job postings, company websites, or recruiter profiles. Scammers use them to collect personal data or trick job seekers into paying fees for fake training or equipment. Because AI can make these listings look professional, it’s easy to fall for them. Always research the company, check its official site, and never pay upfront for a job opportunity.
Conclusion
AI scams are becoming smarter and harder to spot, but awareness is your best defense. Be cautious of unexpected calls, emails, or offers that seem too good—or too urgent—to be true. Verify identities before sharing information, and keep up with new types of scams as they appear. AI can be a powerful tool for good, but only if we stay informed and alert to the ways criminals misuse it.
Also read: Report Business Scams! How to Report a Scam or Make a Complaint
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