Security Corner Blog

Advances in AI technology have enabled criminals to replicate voices and videos with startling accuracy. All they need is a few seconds of your voice—often obtained from social media, voicemail greetings, or streamed events—to create a realistic impersonation. These tools allow scammers to execute convincing fraud, such as:

• Impersonating a grandchild in an emergency, needing money urgently.
• Pretending to be a boss demanding payment for an "urgent" invoice.
• Creating fake romantic connections to request financial help.
• Posing as a bank representative to request account verification or initiate fraudulent transactions.

The FBI and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) report a dramatic rise in AI voice cloning scams this year, with incidents already surpassing 2023 totals.

What Makes AI Scams So Dangerous?

Cybercriminals don’t stop at cloning voices. They use public information, like family connections shared on social media, to add credibility to their scams. By pairing AI technology with social media insights, scammers craft emotionally manipulative scenarios that make their schemes hard to detect.

Experts warn these attacks will grow more sophisticated in 2025. It's essential to stay vigilant and take precautions now to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Simple Steps to Stay Safe

1. Switch to an Automated Voicemail

Replace personal voicemail greetings with pre-recorded defaults offered by your phone provider. These generic messages provide no material for AI voice cloning.

2. Set Up a Family Code Word

Agree on a "safe word" with family members. This secret phrase can help verify a caller’s identity during an emergency. Choose something unique and not easily guessed, like an inside joke or obscure trivia.

3. Limit Personal Information Online

Be cautious about sharing details on social media, especially during the holidays. Avoid identifying family members in posts or tagging locations in real time.

4. Be Skeptical of Suspicious Calls

If you receive a call that feels off:

• Hang up immediately.
• Contact the person directly using a trusted phone number to confirm their identity.
• Avoid responding to unknown numbers, even if the caller ID looks familiar.

5. Watch for Red Flags

AI-generated voices might lack natural pauses, emotional tone, or background noise. Scammers may also demand payment through irreversible methods like cryptocurrency or gift cards. These are key signs of fraud.

Stay Ahead of Scammers

AI tools are making fraud more convincing than ever, and traditional warning signs—like poor grammar in phishing emails—are becoming less reliable. Stay informed and share these tips with friends and family. The best defense is awareness and preparation.

As technology evolves, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. This holiday season, take proactive steps to safeguard your personal information and protect your loved ones from financial scams.

Remember: If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to just hang up.

Article content is provided for information purposes only.