How to spot AI-powered scams: cloned voices, fake videos and convincing messages

AI tools make it cheap to write fluent messages, imitate voices and create realistic videos. That means the old advice — “look for spelling mistakes” — no longer works. What still works is slowing down and checking through a separate channel.

Cloned-voice calls

A short clip of someone's voice from social media can be enough to imitate it. The classic pattern is an urgent call from a “family member” in trouble who needs money now. Hang up and call them back on the number you already have. Some families agree on a simple code word for emergencies.

Fake videos and celebrity endorsements

Realistic videos of well-known people “recommending” investments or giveaways are common. Treat any celebrity endorsement of a money opportunity as fake until you've confirmed it on their official, verified channels.

Polished messages that create urgency

Bank, delivery and tax messages can now be flawless. Red flags are urgency, unusual payment methods (gift cards, crypto, bank transfers to new accounts) and links you didn't expect. Go to the website or app directly instead of clicking.

• Pause. Urgency is the scammer's main tool.
• Verify separately. Call back on a number you already know, or use the official app.
• Never pay by gift card or crypto because someone asked you to under pressure.
• Talk about it. Share these patterns with older relatives — they're often targeted.

If you think you've been scammed, contact your bank immediately and report it to your local police or consumer protection agency.