Security Corner Blog

Upcoming Webinar: Fraud in the Age of AI

Deepfakes, Voice Cloning & Scam Innovation
Wednesday, August 27 | 6:00 PM ET

Learn how scammers use today’s AI tools to impersonate trusted organizations.

Register Now

Imagine getting a call that seems to be from your credit union. The person on the line knows your name, references a recent transaction, and sounds exactly like someone you’ve spoken with before. But here’s the twist—it’s not us. It’s a scammer using artificial intelligence.

AI is transforming the way criminals approach financial fraud, especially impersonation scams. These fraudsters now use tools that allow them to convincingly pose as customer service agents, loan officers, or fraud department staff. Their goal? Trick you into sending money or sharing sensitive information. Here's how they do it—and how you can protect yourself.

How AI is Fueling the Rise in Impersonation Scams

Voice Cloning and Deepfake Audio

Scammers can now clone voices with just a short audio sample—sometimes pulled from a voicemail greeting, a webinar, or even social media. With this tech, they can create a shockingly realistic version of someone who works at your financial institution.

These voice clones are used to:

• “Confirm” suspicious activity
• Urgently request identity verification
• Instruct you to move funds for “security purposes”
• Push you to provide login credentials or verification codes

The caller may sound official—but the intent is anything but.

AI-Generated Emails, Texts & Chatbots

AI also enables fraudsters to craft emails, text messages, and even fake chatbots that appear to come from legitimate sources. These messages are often personalized, using details gathered from public records or past data breaches.

Scammers use these tools to:

• Send emails with authentic-looking branding and tone
• Text urgent alerts with links to spoofed login pages
• Deploy fake chat support windows on imitation websites to capture your info in real time

Because the messages feel personal and look professional, they’re often convincing enough to deceive even careful members.

Why These Scams Work So Well

• They appear familiar. The voice sounds real. The email includes your name. The message references something that feels relevant.
• They create pressure. You’re told you must act quickly to avoid account suspension or fraud.
• They’re fine-tuned. AI allows scammers to adapt their language, tone, and timing to seem credible and trustworthy.

What USSFCU Will Never Do

Knowing what to expect from a legitimate communication can help you avoid falling victim. At USSFCU, we will never:

• Call, text, or email asking for your password, PIN, or one-time passcodes
• Tell you to move money out of your account for “security reasons”
• Pressure you into acting immediately or threaten account closure

If you’re ever unsure whether a message or call is really from us, pause and verify by calling the number listed on our website—not the one provided in the message.

How to Stay Safe

• Don’t rely on caller ID. Phone numbers can be spoofed to look official.
• Verify independently. Contact USSFCU directly using trusted contact methods.
• Be cautious with links and attachments. When in doubt, don’t click.
• Use multifactor authentication. Add a strong second layer of security to your accounts.
• Limit personal details online. Less public info means less ammunition for scammers.
• Report suspicious activity. If something doesn’t feel right, we want to hear from you.

Stay Informed. Stay Empowered.

Technology may be advancing, but so is your ability to spot a scam. Staying aware is your first—and best—line of defense. If you’re ever in doubt, trust your gut and verify through official channels.

Upcoming Webinar: Fraud in the Age of AI

Deepfakes, Voice Cloning & Scam Innovation
Wednesday, August 27 | 6:00 PM ET

Learn how scammers use today’s AI tools to impersonate trusted organizations—and how to stop them in their tracks.

Register Now

Article content is provided for information purposes only.