Scammers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to deceive people. The two most common tools they deploy are convincing deepfakes and advanced voice synthesis. These techniques let criminals create photos and videos that look real and mimic voices with high fidelity, enabling them to bypass verification systems, extract sensitive data, or coerce victims into handing over money or information.
In practical terms, deepfakes are used to craft visuals that resemble real individuals, which can be fed into fake profiles, fraudulent apps, or spoofed calls. Voice synthesis takes this a step further by reproducing a familiar voice, making it possible to request urgent transfers, disclose confidential details, or manipulate emotions and trust in high-pressure situations. The result is a chilling blend of realism and manipulation that can be hard to spot at first glance.
Although these methods aren’t yet ubiquitous on a global scale, they have become a noticeable threat in certain local contexts where threat actors are more active. To guard against these scams, cybersecurity experts emphasize the value of robust fraud detection tools and a cautious approach to calls or messages that demand immediate action or present unusual requests. In practice, adopting a layered approach to verification can make a substantial difference.
Experts advise verifying the true identity of the person on the other end of the communication, even if the caller or sender appears to be someone familiar. Scammers can access sophisticated tools that alter voices or appearances and can craft elaborate stories tailored to a specific target. A reliable way to expose a fraudulent attempt is to reach out directly to the person or their known associates through independent channels, rather than relying on information provided in the suspicious message itself. Building habits of verification creates a strong first line of defense against these advanced fraud schemes.
There are broader lessons about digital risk that apply to everyday device use as well. For instance, improper handling of charging and device settings can lead to avoidable security gaps. Keeping software up to date, using trusted authentication methods, and being mindful of new and unusual requests over digital channels can reduce the likelihood of falling prey to AI-assisted scams. Staying informed about evolving tactics and maintaining a healthy skepticism in ambiguous situations are practical steps everyone can take to protect personal information and finances.