Fraud driven by artificial intelligence apps (AI) has become more convincing, more personal and harder to spot than traditional scams. Reports from cybersecurity researchers, financial institutions and fraud investigators show that deepfakes, voice cloning and AI-generated impersonation attacks are among the fastest growing threats.
Stay informed. Stay safe. Keep reading to learn how to spot some of the most common AI scams. Remember that the best way to keep your information, money and identity safe is to never share usernames, passwords, or other identifying information with anyone who asks for them. Arsenal and other reputable organizations will never reach out and ask you for this information.
If you suspect fraud, feel free to reach out to us as soon as you can. You can also report the threat to the Federal Trade Commission.
Quick links:
AI voice cloning scams
One of the most alarming scams involved criminals using AI to clone a person’s voice from just a short audio sample found online. Scammers then call family members pretending to be a loved one in trouble and urgently requesting money.
Warning signs:
- Requests for money that create panic or urgency.
- Calls claiming a relative has been arrested, injured, or stranded.
- Refusal to verify identity through another communication method.
How to stay safe:
- Hang up and call the person directly using a known phone number.
- Create a family verification phrase.
- Never send money based on a single phone call.
Deepfake video impersonation
Deepfake technology can now create realistic videos that appear to show trusted individuals speaking on live video calls. Fraudsters are using these fake videos to impersonate executives, coworkers, financial advisors, and even public figures.
Warning signs:
- Unexpected requests involving payments or sensitive information.
- Slightly unnatural facial movements or audio quality.
- Pressure to act immediately.
How to stay safe:
- Verify requests through a second communication channel.
- Confirm financial transactions with established procedures.
- Be skeptical of urgent video messages.
AI-powered investment scams
Investment fraud remains one of the most costly scam categories, and AI is making it even more effective. Criminals create fake testimonials, generate convincing content, and even use deepfake videos of celebrities or financial experts to promote fraudulent investments.
Warning signs:
- Promises of guaranteed returns.
- Pressure to invest quickly.
- Cryptocurrency opportunities promoted through social media messages.
How to stay safe:
- Research investment platforms independently.
- Verify licenses and registrations.
- Avoid investments that sound too good to be true.
AI-generated phishing and emails scams
Traditional phishing emails often contain spelling mistakes and poor grammar. Today’s AI-generated scams can produce highly personalized messages that look legitimate and closely match a company’s brand voice.
Warning signs:
- Unexpected requests to click links or download files.
- Messages asking for passwords or payment information.
- Slight variations in email addresses or website URLs.
How to stay safe:
- Verify requests directly with the organization.
- Use multi-factor authentication.
- Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails.
AI-enhanced romance scams
Romance scammers are using AI-generated photos, videos and conversations to build trust with victims. These scams can continue for weeks or months before a criminal asks for money or personal information.
Warning signs:
- Someone quickly expressing strong feelings
- Excuses for never meeting in person
- Request for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
How to stay safe:
- Reverse-search profile photos when possible.
- Be cautious with online-only relationships.
- Never send money to someone you haven’t met and verified.
