Protect Yourself from AI Fraud

As you navigate the digital landscape, it is important to be aware of the evolving fraud risks  posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Scammers embrace AI because it enables them to analyze  large amounts of data quickly, identify potential targets more efficiently, and personalize their  scams to appear genuine, increasing the chances of success.  

By equipping yourself with the right knowledge and skills, you can mitigate many of these risks.  Much of this comes down to staying informed about the latest scams and fraud tactics. By doing  this, you’re improving your ability to detect potential risks before they ensnare you in their  deceptive web. Here are a few of the most popular:  

Phishing Scams 

Phishing scams are a time-tested strategy and have only gotten better through AI. Scammers  use AI to craft convincing emails or messages impersonating reputable organizations.1 For  example, you might receive an email that appears to be from your bank, asking you to update  your account details by clicking on a link. The look and feel of the site may be spot-on, but it’s  not your bank, it’s an imposter looking to gain your login credentials.  

Imposter Scams 

Imposter scams involve fraudsters posing as trusted individuals or organizations, such as  government agencies or utility companies.2 AI technology enables scammers to mimic voices  and manipulate victims into believing their authenticity. For example, you may receive a call  from someone claiming to be from the IRS, pressuring you to provide personal information or  make immediate payments. It might sound legitimate, but the IRS will never call you for an  immediate payment. 

Tech Support Scams 

Tech support scams pretend to offer assistance with computer issues. Scammers may use pop ups or phone calls to convince individuals to provide access to their devices or pay for  unnecessary services.3 For example, you may encounter a pop-up claiming your computer is  infected and urging you to call a toll-free number for immediate assistance. Once again, this is a  scam trying to separate you and your hard-earned money. 

Grandparent Scams 

Grandparent scams exploit emotions by pretending to be a grandchild in distress, often  requesting money urgently.4 AI technology enables scammers to research and personalize their  approach, making the scam more convincing. For example, you might receive a phone call from  someone claiming to be your grandson, asking for money to bail him out of jail. Rest assured,  your grandson is probably not in jail, this is a scam and you should hang up. 

Deepfake Scams 

Deepfake technology, fueled by AI, is a growing concern in the realm of fraud. Scammers can  use AI algorithms to manipulate videos or images, creating realistic yet fraudulent content that  appears to feature well-known individuals. This can be leveraged for various scams, such as  impersonating celebrities or public figures to deceive individuals into believing false narratives or  engaging in financial transactions. For example, you might see a video featuring a famous  person encouraging you to invest in an exciting new opportunity. It might look real, but it’s  computer-generated.  

Malware Attacks 

AI-powered malware attacks have become more sophisticated, making it harder to detect and  prevent them. Scammers leverage AI to create intelligent malware that can evade traditional  security measures and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems or networks. For example,  you might download a seemingly innocent file, but behind the scenes, the malware is infiltrating  your computer.5 

Protecting oneself from AI-driven fraud requires a combination of awareness, caution, and  education. Be cautious of unsolicited requests for personal information, immediate payments, or  access to your devices, whether it’s an email, phone call, or pop-up.  

Independently verify the identity of individuals or organizations contacting you. Don’t rely solely  on the information provided by the caller or the content of an email. Use official contact  information from trusted sources to reach out and confirm the authenticity of the communication. By staying informed about the latest scams, recognizing the signs of AI-driven fraud, and  implementing the tips provided by reputable sources, you can safeguard your financial well being in the digital age.  

1 AARP. “Phishing.” Aarp.Org, 2 Sept. 2021, www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2019/phishing.html.  Accessed 14 Jul. 2023. 

2 Federal Trade Commission: Consumer Advice. “Imposter Scams.” Consumer.Ftc.Gov, 18 May 2016,  consumer.ftc.gov/features/imposter-scams. Accessed 14 Jul. 2023. 

3 Waterman, Genevieve. “The Top 5 Financial Scams Targeting Older Adults.” National Council on Aging,  27 Jul. 2022, www.ncoa.org/article/top-5-financial-scams-targeting-older-adults. Accessed 14 Jul. 2023.

4 Waterman, Genevieve. “The Top 5 Financial Scams Targeting Older Adults.” National Council on Aging,  27 Jul. 2022, www.ncoa.org/article/top-5-financial-scams-targeting-older-adults. Accessed 14 Jul. 2023. 5 AARP. “Tech Support Scams.” Aarp.Org, 1 Apr. 2022, www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info 2019/tech-support.html. Accessed 14 Jul. 2023.

This material is being provided for information purposes only and is not a complete description, nor is it a  recommendation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected. 

This information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the forgoing  material is accurate or complete. You should discuss any legal matters with the appropriate professional. 

This information was developed by the Oechsli Institute, an independent third party. The opinions of the Oechsli Institute  are independent from and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James.

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