How to protect yourself: Think AI scam
Stay safe online
Scammers can use AI to trawl social media to manipulate pictures, videos and personal details for deepfake content so be careful what you share publicly. Protect your accounts with strong, unique passwords that use three random words. Turn on 2-step verification (2SV) for important accounts which provides an extra layer of security that only you can access. Search for ‘Stop Think Fraud 2SV” for more information via gov.uk/StopThinkFraud
Unexpected contact
Scammers use AI to power phone calls, emails, texts and WhatsApp messages that look genuine. If someone contacts you out of the blue claiming to be from a trusted service, hang up or reject the messaging platform that you have been contacted on, and contact them back via a method that you know for sure is genuine.
Scrutinise websites
Scammers build AI generated copycat websites of trusted companies that look almost identical to the real thing. Check the web address and contact details for anomalies and the content for any misspellings or irregularities.
Unsolicited emails
Scammers generate emails using AI so beware of unfamiliar senders, messages urging you to act quickly or suspicious links and attachments. Always verify the sender’s address or phone by calling the company using the number on their official website.
Online dating
Scammers use AI to write messages, send videos and voice notes to build a rapport with you. Be mindful if there is an avoidance to meet in person, the relationship moves forward quickly, or if money is requested because of an emergency. Fraudsters might also encourage you to move the conversation away from the original platform to avoid being detected.