Beware of AI-Powered Scams
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world, including how scams look and sound. Today’s fraud attempts are becoming more sophisticated: more personal, more polished, and harder to identify. We’ll all need to be even more vigilant!
How Scams Are Evolving with AI
Scammers are using AI tools to make messages feel more real and more urgent. As a result, scam emails, texts, and calls now include:
- Better spelling and grammar, with fewer obvious mistakes.
- Personal details, such as names or references derived from public information.
- A familiar tone, including messages that sound like they’re from someone you know or trust.
Examples of Common AI Supported Scams
Impersonating a Family Member or Friend
This scam has been around for a long time: a phone call, voicemail, or text message claiming a loved one is in trouble and needs money immediately. Now, scammers can use voice cloning technology to make the call sound like it’s actually coming from a loved one. Scammers prey on human trust and rely on your instinct to help those you love.
Urgent Requests That Appear Routine
AI can mimic how co workers, managers, friends, or loved ones write, allowing scammers to send emails or texts that seem like everyday requests, but with an urgent message asking for money, gift cards, or payment app details.
More Convincing Phishing Messages
On top of spoofing email addresses and caller IDs to impersonate trusted entities and connections, AI generated emails and texts are often well written, professionally formatted, and personalized, making them harder to recognize as fraudulent.
How to Protect Yourself
- Slow down. Scammers rely on urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.
- Verify before you act. Don’t reply directly to unexpected messages. Instead, contact a real person or organization using a phone number or method you already trust to verify their request.
- Be cautious with money requests, especially those involving wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps. Once the money has been sent, it likely cannot be recovered.
- Be suspicious. If a message feels unusual or out of character, take the time to stop and verify before taking any action.
Remember: Tri Counties Bank will never call, text, or email you to ask for your User ID, password, PIN, one-time passcode, or any other sensitive information.