When humanity discovered how to split the atom, it brought the hope of unlimited energy. It also brought the threat of destruction from nuclear war. Now, artificial intelligence promises to help humanity. But there are fears that it will lead to our extinction. However, reality is not that sinister. The plain and simple truth is that hackers can use AI to scam you. If you are here, then you want to avoid these AI scams. Keep reading to learn how to avoid the latest artificial intelligence scams that are flooding the internet.
How Is AI Used to Scam You?
AI models like ChatGPT have given ordinary people the power to generate almost anything based on a prompt. Thankfully, most are discovering the positive ways they can use AI to change their lives. And the benefits are limitless.
Unfortunately, this means that cybercriminals have a tool to create more sophisticated scams. From fake AI phone calls to deceptive messages, AI scams are swindling people of their money in ways they have never encountered.
Take a Look at How AI is Being Used to Scam People:
- AI-powered phishing: AI algorithms can analyze vast datasets to create personalized phishing emails. Cybercriminals exploit these patterns, making people more likely to click on malicious links.
- Catfishing and love scams: Did you know that thirty-two percent of people cannot tell the difference between a chatbot and a human? Dating sites are now full of AI chatbots that engage with users and gain their trust. Then, they use this trust to get personal information and bank account details.
- AI scam calls: One of the most chilling features of AI is its ability to replicate a human voice. Cybercriminals are using this to come up with ingenious scam calls. These calls impersonate authority figures or even family members to collect sensitive information.
- Fake images and videos: Programs like DeepFake allow scammers to create realistic images and videos. They fabricate content and place people in compromising positions to extort money.
- Fraudulent AI transactions: The processing power of artificial intelligence can automate fraudulent transactions. Hackers harness this power to perform credit card fraud and online shopping scams.
How Do You Avoid AI Scams?
Now that you know these AI scams are possible, you probably want to avoid these sophisticated attacks.
One of the best ways to avoid AI scams is to find out how they work. Generate some prompts on programs like ChatGPT and pay attention to the language of the algorithm. Confirming any message you receive from the bank is also a good idea.
You can learn more about AI voice cloning to know how it sounds. For example, if you ever receive a call from your bank, don’t give them personal or financial information. AI voice cloning is accurate, so don’t let the legitimacy fool you. Ask as many questions as possible if you are unsure of the source of any phone call.
Since these AI scams are getting more effective, you may want to browse with a virtual private network. VPNs protect personal data and hide your IP address for safer browsing. Look out for the VPN pros and cons so you know it’s one you can trust. Try to find a VPN with extra features that block phishing and malware-distributing websites.
AI-powered scams will get better as time passes. Following these steps can help you secure yourself against AI scams and fraudsters.
How Can AI Be Used to Stop Scams?
On the plus side, artificial intelligence isn’t just a tool for cybercrime and hackers. There are many inventive ways we can use AI to our benefit. One of these ways is to prevent artificial intelligence scams.
Machine learning is perfect for analyzing large sets of data. It can examine hacking attacks and trends to use this data to prevent similar attacks in the future.
AI tools can also detect a fraud attack in seconds. This means it can formulate a solution in real time to counteract potential breaches. With people behind the machines, this process can take six to eight weeks.
So, while there are many people who will use AI for malicious purposes, there are forces for good who seek to combat these attacks.
Take a Look at Some of the Other Ways AI is Being Used to Stop Scams:
- Identity Verification: AI-powered identity verification systems can analyze biometric data, like fingerprints or facial recognition.
- Phishing Detection: AI can detect phishing attempts by detecting patterns used in phishing emails and scams.
- Voice Analysis: AI can compare voiceprints to detect potential vishing (voice phishing) attempts and fraudulent profiles.
- Text Analysis: AI algorithms can assess written content for inconsistencies or signs of deception. This can help uproot fraudulent online reviews, messages, and documents.
- Credit Card Fraud Prevention: AI systems can detect unusual spending patterns and locations, triggering alerts or temporary freezes.
- Behavioral Biometrics: AI can analyze patterns such as typing speed, mouse movement, and device location to distinguish between real users and potential scammers.
- Social Media Monitoring: AI can scan social media platforms for suspicious activities and posts that may be attempts at scamming or fraud.
- Advanced Threat Intelligence: AI can process large volumes of data from various sources to identify new scam techniques. This will help organizations stay one step ahead of fraudsters.
- Automated Customer Support: AI-driven chatbots can help users verify information and transactions.
Conclusion
The landscape of artificial intelligence evolves at a rapid pace. The scams we have today will only get better with time, so it’s a good idea to get a headstart now and learn how to stay safe.
Start by securing your system with stronger passwords, anti-virus software, and a good VPN. Learning about the latest AI technology will help you identify any scams before they become problematic.
When it comes to artificial intelligence, knowledge is power. Many fear the negative potential of AI. The only way to overcome this is by knowing how to implement these algorithms for positive purposes.
