Spotting AI-Generated Scams: What to Watch For

AI can create fake voices, images, and emails. Red flags and how to verify before you act.

Fake voices, images, and emails are easier to create than ever

Scammers use AI to clone voices, generate fake photos, and write convincing messages. Here’s how to spot the signs and protect yourself.

Fake voices

AI can mimic a family member’s voice from a short clip. Red flags: urgent requests for money, refusal to let you call back, or a strange phone number.

What to do:

  • Hang up and call the person on a number you know.
  • Ask a question only they would know the answer to.

Fake images and videos

AI can create realistic photos and videos. Look for odd details: weird hands, blurry edges, or inconsistent lighting. If something feels off, verify through another source.

AI-written emails

Scam emails may be more polished than before — fewer typos, more professional. The tactics are the same: urgency, requests for money or personal info, and suspicious links. Don’t click; verify separately.

Always verify

  • Contact the person or company through a known channel.
  • Don’t use links or numbers from the message.
  • When in doubt, pause and ask someone you trust.