How to Protect Yourself from AI Voice Scams in 2024

 

In 2024, AI technology is more advanced than ever, and while it’s brought amazing innovations, it’s also created new ways for scammers to trick people. One of the most alarming trends is AI voice scams, where criminals use artificial intelligence to mimic the voices of loved ones or authority figures to steal money or sensitive information.

Imagine getting a phone call that sounds exactly like your best friend or family member asking for help—only to later find out it was a scammer using AI-generated voice technology! These scams are becoming more common and harder to detect, but there are ways to protect yourself.

How Do AI Voice Scams Work?

AI voice scams are typically carried out using deepfake technology that can clone a person’s voice after hearing just a few seconds of audio. Scammers may get samples of someone’s voice from social media videos, voicemail greetings, or even brief conversations. Then, using sophisticated software, they can create convincing voice clones that sound almost identical to the real person.

Here’s how these scams usually play out: 

1. The scammer clones a voice: They get a sample of the person’s voice (often through social media) and use AI software to mimic it.
2. They make a phone call: The scammer calls someone pretending to be a friend, family member, or authority figure in distress.
3. The scam request: The fake voice may ask for money, personal information, or even convince the victim to perform urgent tasks like transferring funds.

It’s scary, but there are ways to defend against this new type of fraud.

Tips to Protect Yourself from AI Voice Scams

1. Always Double-Check Requests

If you receive a suspicious phone call from someone claiming to be a loved one in trouble, don’t panic. Always double-check the request. Call the person back on a known number or contact them through another method (like texting or social media) to verify if it was really them.

2. Use Safe Words

Set up a safe word with your family and close friends that only you and they know. If someone calls asking for help, ask them for the safe word to confirm their identity. Scammers won’t know this word, so it’s a reliable way to verify if the caller is legitimate.

3. Be Careful What You Share Online

Scammers often gather voice samples from social media platforms. Be cautious about what you post publicly—especially voice messages, videos, or audio clips that can be used to clone your voice. Consider limiting who can view your posts and be mindful of what you’re sharing.

4. Don’t Rush into Decisions

AI voice scams are designed to make you feel urgent or panicked. If someone is pressuring you to act fast (especially involving money or sensitive information), take a step back. Scammers rely on catching people off guard, so giving yourself time to think is one of the best defenses.

5. Stay Updated on Scam Trends

AI scams are evolving, so it’s important to stay informed. Follow consumer protection agencies or tech news outlets for the latest updates on these types of scams. Knowing the signs can help you avoid becoming a victim.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you receive a call and think it might be an AI voice scam, here’s what to do:

• Hang up immediately if you suspect the call is fake.
• Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local authorities to help track and prevent further scams.
• Warn others: Inform your friends and family about the scam to prevent them from falling for it too.

Final Thoughts

AI voice scams are a growing threat in 2024, but with the right precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim. Remember, always verify the identity of the caller, be careful what you share online, and don’t rush into decisions when someone is pressuring you. By staying vigilant, you can outsmart even the most convincing scammers.