FBI Urges Smartphone Users to Protect Themselves Against AI-Driven Scams
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a public warning about the growing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in smartphone-based cyberattacks, Forbes reports.
From phishing scams to deepfake voice and video fraud, AI tools are making cyber schemes more convincing than ever. To combat this threat, the FBI advises smartphone users to take immediate precautions, including creating a secret word for emergency verification.
The FBI’s public service alert highlighted several ways generative AI is being weaponized to target smartphone users. These include:
- Fake Images and Videos: AI-generated content, such as photos or videos, is used to impersonate real individuals or celebrities to establish trust with victims.
- Deepfake Audio: Scammers create audio clips mimicking the voices of loved ones in distress to request financial help.
- Live AI Video Calls: Fraudsters may conduct real-time video calls using AI to impersonate authority figures like company executives or law enforcement.
- Convincing Personas: AI-generated content can include chat scripts, social media profiles, or other materials to support elaborate scams.
Generative AI’s ability to craft polished, error-free communications makes these attacks harder to detect.
“It can be difficult to tell what is real and what is AI-generated today,” the FBI stated in its alert.
To reduce the risk of falling victim to these sophisticated attacks, the FBI recommends taking these precautions:
- Verify Callers Independently: Hang up and confirm the caller’s identity by searching for their contact details online and using an official number to call them back.
- Create a Secret Word: Establish a private word or phrase with trusted family and friends. This word can be used to verify their identity in case of emergency calls or unusual requests.
- Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information: Never disclose personal, financial, or sensitive information to someone you’ve only interacted with online or over the phone.
- Report Fraud: If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a financial scam, file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
