AI Scams Grow: How to Spot and Stop Them
People are losing a lot of money to tricks that use smart computer programs.
Scammers send fake calls from banks, pretend the IRS is contacting you, or post job ads that never pay. They use new tools that can copy voices and make pictures look real, so it feels like the message comes from a trusted source.
The Cost of Deception
Because of these tricks, Americans have lost more than $12 billion in recent years.
A large part of that comes from fake investments and job offers that ask for money up front, but the work never happens.
How to Protect Yourself
Pause on Urgent Requests
If you receive an unexpected email or phone call that says “you must act now,” stop and think. Don’t give money, passwords or personal details to anyone who isn’t a confirmed representative of your bank or government agency.Enable Two‑Factor Authentication (2FA)
Add an extra step before you log in. Even if someone knows your password, they still need a second piece of proof—like a text message code—to open your account.Shop Safely Online
- Buy only from sites that look trustworthy.
- Check that the web address starts with “https://.”
- Keep your browser’s security settings turned on; modern browsers can block phishing links and dangerous ads.
Stay vigilant and protect your financial information.
The more you know, the less likely you are to become a victim of these sophisticated scams.
