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AI-Powered Scams And How To Protect Yourself

AI Friend Or Foe?

 



The rise of AI has brought about incredible advancements, but it has also opened up new avenues for scammers to exploit. From voice cloning to personalized phishing, AI technology is making scams more convincing and harder to detect. Here's what you need to know to stay safe in this new digital landscape.

The Rise of AI-Enhanced Scams


AI technology has made it easier and cheaper to create high-quality media, which unfortunately includes scams. While the scams themselves are not new, AI has given them a new twist, making them more convincing and easier to execute on a large scale.

Voice Cloning Scams


One of the most alarming uses of AI in scams is voice cloning. Scammers can now create convincing fake versions of a loved one's voice with just a few seconds of audio. This technology can be used to create distressing scenarios, like a voicemail from a "family member" in need of immediate financial assistance.

How to Protect Yourself:

Treat any request for money from an unknown number with suspicion.
Verify the person's identity by contacting them directly through a known and trusted method.

Be cautious and don't rush into sending money without double-checking the authenticity of the request.

Personalized Phishing Emails


AI can generate personalized phishing emails that are much more convincing than the generic spam emails we're used to. By using data from breaches and online activities, these emails can include personal details like your name, recent purchases, and location, making them seem legitimate.

How to Protect Yourself:

Be vigilant about unexpected emails, even if they seem to come from a trusted source.
Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails.
Use email filters and security software to help detect and block phishing attempts.

Identity and Verification Fraud


With so much personal data available online, AI can create a fake persona that closely mimics you, using your voice and other personal information to pass verification checks. This can be used to gain access to your accounts or create new ones in your name.

How to Protect Yourself:

Enable multi-factor authentication on all important accounts.
Monitor account activity for any suspicious behavior.
Be cautious when sharing personal information online and keep security settings up to date.

AI-Generated Deepfakes


AI can create realistic deepfake images and videos that can be used for blackmail or other malicious purposes. This is particularly concerning with the rise of AI-generated non-consensual intimate imagery, where scammers create fake nude images of victims.

How to Protect Yourself:

Be aware of the potential for deepfake technology to be misused.
Report any blackmail attempts to the authorities and seek legal assistance.
Use tools and services designed to detect and combat deepfakes.

While AI technology brings many benefits, it's crucial to stay informed about the potential risks and take proactive steps to protect yourself. By remaining vigilant and adopting good cybersecurity practices, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to AI-enhanced scams.

___________________________________________________________________________

Vertical Bar Media 

For more information on protecting yourself from digital threats and enhancing your cybersecurity, visit Vertical Bar Media.

Source: Tech Crunch

Photo Credit: AI

Social Media Hashtags: #AIFraud #Cybersecurity #OnlineSafety #TechSupport

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