Are You Doing Enough to Protect Yourself from AI Scams?

(StraightNews.org) – The ability to steal money using artificial intelligence (AI) is reaching new levels, according to experts. Technology whizzes warn people to use caution and advise on steps we can take to avoid being victims of theft. Internet security firm Kaspersky says AI is increasingly used for malicious purposes, and fraudsters can create false text messages, emails, and even photos faster than ever before.

One such advance is in scams known as deepfakes. These fake videos can feature high-profile figures apparently endorsing a product or investment. AI also makes it easier to create professional-looking emails that falsely state they are from banks or other financial institutions and encourage people to provide personal information that can be used to steal from the victim or sold to other scammers. “For many years, such scams could be identified by sloppy language and numerous typos, because the scammers didn’t have the time to write and proofread them properly,” said Stan Kaminsky of Kaspersky.

Mr. Kaminsky advises four steps that internet users should take to stay safe. He said people are wise to be suspicious of everything they see online, particularly if it is “emotionally provocative,” and adds that nobody should ever send money or personal information to anyone approaching them by text or email.

Kaminsky also advised that unexpected phone calls should be treated with suspicion, noting that AI even makes it possible for fraudsters to fake people’s voices – even of victims’ family members. He advises creating a “safe word” with friends and relatives. Caller-identifier apps are available that identify and block fraudulent callers, and Kaminsky recommends downloading these onto our cell phones.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data from February last year revealed that Americans lost $8.8 billion to fraudsters in 2022. Investment scams accounted for the highest losses at $3.8 billion, more than double the amount in 2021. The FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Network, which receives reports on fraud from federal, state, and local sources, reported 5.1 million fraud alerts in 2022.