Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed the way we live, work, and interact with technology. From smart assistants like Siri and Alexa to sophisticated algorithms driving decisions in finance, healthcare, and marketing, AI is everywhere. However, with the rapid growth of AI, scammers have found new and innovative ways to exploit unsuspecting individuals and businesses.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 50 different AI-related scams you should be aware of and, more importantly, how to protect yourself against them.
1. AI-Generated Phishing Emails
Phishing emails have been around for years, but AI has taken them to a new level. Scammers use AI to craft convincing emails that mimic legitimate organizations, tricking you into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information.
How to Stop It: Be skeptical of unsolicited emails, especially those requesting personal information. Always verify the sender’s email address and double-check URLs before clicking. If in doubt, contact the organization directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate.
Useful Resource: Phishing.org
2. Deepfake Videos
Deepfakes are AI-generated videos that can make it look like someone said or did something they didn’t. Scammers use deepfakes to manipulate public opinion, blackmail individuals, or impersonate CEOs in business scams.
How to Stop It: Be cautious of video content that seems out of character or too sensational to be true. Use deepfake detection tools like Deepware Scanner to check for manipulation.
3. AI Investment Scams
AI is often touted as the next big thing in investment, and scammers exploit this by offering fake AI-driven investment platforms. They promise high returns with minimal risk, but in reality, they’re just stealing your money.
How to Stop It: Always research investment opportunities thoroughly. Look for reviews, check the credentials of the company, and be wary of promises that seem too good to be true.
Useful Resource: SEC Investor Alerts
4. AI-Driven Fake News
AI can generate realistic-sounding news articles that spread misinformation. These fake news stories can influence public opinion, sway elections, or cause financial markets to fluctuate.
How to Stop It: Verify news stories through reputable sources. Websites like Snopes and FactCheck.org are great for debunking false information.
5. Fake AI-Powered Products
Scammers sell products claiming to be AI-powered, such as “smart” home devices or health monitors, that either don’t work as advertised or are outright fakes.
How to Stop It: Research products before purchasing. Check reviews, ensure the company is reputable, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
Useful Resource: Consumer Reports
6. AI-Generated Fake Reviews
AI is being used to generate fake reviews for products and services, making it hard to know what’s genuine.
How to Stop It: Look for patterns in reviews. If something feels off—like overly generic praise or many reviews posted in a short time—dig deeper. Use tools like Fakespot to analyze the authenticity of reviews.
7. Voice Cloning for Fraud
Scammers use AI to clone voices and trick victims into thinking they’re speaking with a loved one or colleague, often leading to financial theft.
How to Stop It: Be cautious of unexpected requests, even from familiar voices. Verify the identity of the caller through another channel, such as a video call or personal visit.
8. AI-Based Identity Theft
AI can be used to gather and piece together personal information from various sources, making it easier for scammers to steal your identity.
How to Stop It: Protect your personal information by using strong, unique passwords for each account and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible. Regularly monitor your credit report for any unusual activity.
Useful Resource: IdentityTheft.gov
9. AI-Enhanced Lottery Scams
Lottery scams are nothing new, but AI enables scammers to personalize them, making the scam more convincing by incorporating personal details.
How to Stop It: Remember, you can’t win a lottery you didn’t enter. Never pay a fee to claim a prize and report suspicious emails to the relevant authorities.
10. AI-Powered Romance Scams
Romance scams have evolved with AI. Scammers now use AI-generated profiles and automated chatbots to engage in long-term deception, ultimately leading to financial exploitation.
How to Stop It: Be wary of online relationships that move quickly or involve requests for money. Perform reverse image searches on profile pictures and never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
Useful Resource: Scam Survivors
11. AI-Driven Job Scams
Job scams using AI are on the rise, with fake job postings and interview processes that mimic legitimate companies. These scams often lead to identity theft or financial loss.
How to Stop It: Research the company before applying. Use official company websites and LinkedIn profiles to verify job postings. Be cautious if asked for sensitive information early in the process.
12. Fake AI Services for Businesses
Scammers offer AI services to businesses, such as marketing or analytics tools, that don’t deliver on their promises or even exist.
How to Stop It: Before purchasing AI services, ask for case studies, client references, and proof of the technology in action. Verify the company’s credentials and read third-party reviews.
13. AI-Generated Fake Newsletters
Scammers use AI to create fake newsletters that look like they come from reputable sources, tricking recipients into clicking malicious links or providing personal information.
How to Stop It: Check the sender’s email address carefully. If something seems off, don’t click on any links or download attachments. Instead, go directly to the organization’s website to verify the information.
14. AI-Enhanced Dating Scams
Similar to romance scams, dating scams involve AI-generated profiles and conversations designed to deceive users into sending money or personal information.
How to Stop It: Be skeptical of anyone who avoids meeting in person or asks for money. Use reputable dating sites that verify user identities and report suspicious profiles.
15. AI-Facilitated Extortion Scams
AI can be used to create convincing fake evidence, such as photos or videos, that scammers use to extort money from victims.
How to Stop It: If you receive extortion threats, don’t engage. Report the incident to the authorities and seek legal advice. Never pay the ransom.
16. AI-Driven Fake Technical Support
Scammers use AI to mimic technical support services, convincing victims that their computer has a virus and charging them for unnecessary or fake services.
How to Stop It: Be cautious of unsolicited calls or pop-ups claiming your computer is infected. Contact your device manufacturer or a trusted tech support provider directly.
Useful Resource: FTC on Tech Support Scams
17. AI in Ponzi Schemes
Scammers use AI to make Ponzi schemes appear legitimate, using automated systems to create fake returns on investments.
How to Stop It: Be wary of investments that guarantee high returns with little risk. Always investigate the company and its financials before investing. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
18. AI-Generated Malicious Code
Scammers use AI to create sophisticated malware that’s harder to detect and more damaging once it infects a system.
How to Stop It: Use reputable antivirus software and keep it updated. Be cautious about downloading software or clicking links from unknown sources.
19. Fake AI-Driven Business Loans
Scammers offer fake AI-driven loans to businesses, promising quick approvals and low interest rates, but they’re just a front for stealing your personal information or money.
How to Stop It: Verify lenders through official channels and avoid deals that require upfront fees. Check reviews and consult with a financial advisor before making decisions.
20. AI-Enhanced Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware attacks have become more sophisticated with AI, targeting specific industries or individuals to maximize the chance of payment.
How to Stop It: Back up your data regularly and ensure your software is up-to-date with the latest security patches. Be cautious of unsolicited emails or links.
Useful Resource: No More Ransom
21. AI-Generated Tax Scams
Scammers use AI to create convincing emails or calls that appear to come from tax authorities, tricking victims into paying fake fines or sharing personal information.
How to Stop It: Remember, tax authorities will never demand payment over email or phone. If you’re unsure, contact the tax office directly using official contact details.
22. Fake AI Tools for Home Automation
Scammers offer fake AI-driven home automation tools that either don’t work or are used to steal your personal information.
How to Stop It: Research products thoroughly and buy from reputable retailers. Look for reviews and ask for recommendations from trusted sources.
23. AI-Powered Fake Charities
Scammers create fake charities using AI to generate convincing websites and social media profiles, exploiting people’s generosity during disasters or crises.
How to Stop It: Verify the legitimacy of a charity through platforms like Charity Navigator before donating.
24. AI-Driven Fake Contests
Scammers use AI to generate fake contests and sweepstakes, tricking victims into providing personal information or paying fees to claim nonexistent prizes.
How to Stop It: Be skeptical of contests you didn’t enter. Never pay fees to claim a prize, and verify the contest with the purported sponsor.
25. AI in Cryptocurrency Scams
Cryptocurrency scams have become more sophisticated with AI, from fake ICOs to AI-generated pump-and-dump schemes.
How to Stop It: Research thoroughly before investing in any cryptocurrency. Look for red flags like unrealistic promises, pressure to buy quickly, or lack of transparency.
Useful Resource: CoinMarketCap’s Guide to Avoiding Scams
26. AI-Generated Fake Customer Support
Scammers use AI to impersonate customer support from popular companies, tricking victims into sharing sensitive information.
How to Stop It: Contact companies directly using official contact information. Be cautious of unsolicited messages or calls offering support.
27. AI-Powered Social Media Scams
Scammers use AI to create fake social media profiles that look legitimate, luring victims into scams such as fake giveaways, phishing links, or fraudulent sales.
How to Stop It: Be skeptical of too-good-to-be-true offers on social media. Verify accounts by checking their activity, followers, and interactions. Report suspicious profiles.
28. AI-Enhanced Online Dating Blackmail
Scammers use AI to engage in online relationships and later blackmail victims with fake compromising photos or videos.
How to Stop It: Be cautious of sharing personal information or images online. If threatened, don’t give in to demands—report the scam to the platform and the authorities.
29. Fake AI-Driven Health Devices
Scammers sell fake AI-driven health devices, such as fitness trackers or smart medical equipment, that don’t work or are used to steal data.
How to Stop It: Purchase health devices only from reputable brands and authorized retailers. Check for FDA approval or other relevant certifications.
30. AI-Powered Grant Scams
Scammers use AI to create convincing grant offers, often requiring victims to pay fees or provide personal information.
How to Stop It: Legitimate grants don’t require payment upfront. Verify grant offers through official channels and be cautious of unsolicited offers.
Useful Resource: Grants.gov
31. AI in Fake Business Opportunities
Scammers offer AI-driven business opportunities that promise high returns with minimal effort, but they’re just a way to steal your money or personal information.
How to Stop It: Be skeptical of business opportunities that sound too easy. Research thoroughly, ask for detailed business plans, and consult with a business advisor.
32. AI-Generated Fake Legal Services
Scammers use AI to create fake legal services, offering help with issues like immigration, debt relief, or personal injury claims, only to take your money without providing any real service.
How to Stop It: Verify legal services through your state’s bar association. Be cautious of unsolicited offers and always get a second opinion.
33. AI-Enhanced Fake Real Estate Listings
Scammers use AI to create fake real estate listings, luring victims into paying deposits or rent for properties that don’t exist.
How to Stop It: Verify real estate listings through reputable platforms and visit properties in person before making any payments. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
Useful Resource: Zillow’s Guide to Avoiding Rental Scams
34. AI-Powered Fake Influencers
Scammers create AI-generated influencers with fake followers and engagement to promote products or services, often leading to scams.
How to Stop It: Check influencers’ authenticity by looking at their follower engagement, content quality, and collaborations with reputable brands. Use tools like Social Blade to analyze their profiles.
35. AI-Generated Fake Investment Platforms
Scammers create fake AI-driven investment platforms, luring victims with promises of high returns and sophisticated algorithms, but ultimately steal their money.
How to Stop It: Research the platform thoroughly. Check for reviews, regulatory approvals, and transparency about how the AI works. Be cautious of platforms that guarantee profits.
36. AI-Driven Pyramid Schemes
Scammers use AI to run pyramid schemes, making them appear as legitimate business opportunities or investment platforms.
How to Stop It: Be wary of business models that require you to recruit others to earn money. Research the company and its business model thoroughly before joining.
37. AI-Generated Fake Scholarships
Scammers offer fake AI-driven scholarships, asking for personal information or fees to apply.
How to Stop It: Legitimate scholarships don’t charge application fees. Verify scholarship offers through official sources like Fastweb or your school’s financial aid office.
38. AI in Fake Crowdfunding Campaigns
Scammers use AI to create convincing fake crowdfunding campaigns, often tugging at heartstrings to solicit donations for fake causes.
How to Stop It: Verify crowdfunding campaigns by checking the organizer’s background, campaign updates, and external reviews. Donate only through reputable platforms like GoFundMe.
39. AI-Enhanced Telemarketing Scams
Scammers use AI to enhance telemarketing scams, making calls sound more convincing and harder to detect as fraud.
How to Stop It: Be cautious of unsolicited calls, especially those asking for personal information or payments. Register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry and report suspicious calls.
40. AI-Generated Fake Insurance Policies
Scammers offer fake AI-driven insurance policies, stealing money from victims while providing no real coverage.
How to Stop It: Verify insurance offers through your state’s insurance department. Research the company and read the policy details carefully before making payments.
41. AI-Powered Fake Tutors and Courses
Scammers create fake AI-driven tutoring services or online courses, promising high-quality education but delivering little or nothing in return.
How to Stop It: Research tutors and courses before enrolling. Look for reviews, credentials, and recommendations from trusted sources. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
42. AI-Enhanced Fake Online Marketplaces
Scammers use AI to create fake online marketplaces, tricking victims into buying products that don’t exist or won’t be delivered.
How to Stop It: Shop from reputable online marketplaces. Check reviews and verify the seller’s credibility before making purchases.
43. AI-Driven Fake Credit Repair Services
Scammers offer AI-driven credit repair services that promise to improve your credit score quickly but are just a way to steal your money.
How to Stop It: Be cautious of credit repair services that guarantee results. Verify the service with your state’s consumer protection office and consider DIY credit repair methods.
Useful Resource: Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA)
44. AI-Powered Fake Personal Loans
Scammers offer fake AI-driven personal loans with attractive terms, only to steal your money or personal information.
How to Stop It: Research lenders thoroughly. Look for reviews, regulatory approvals, and transparency about loan terms. Be cautious of lenders that require upfront fees.
45. AI-Generated Fake Freelance Jobs
Scammers use AI to create fake freelance job offers, luring victims into providing free work or paying for fake tools or services.
How to Stop It: Verify freelance job offers through platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. Be cautious of jobs that require you to pay for tools or services upfront.
46. AI in Fake Legal Settlements
Scammers offer fake AI-driven legal settlements, convincing victims to pay fees or provide personal information.
How to Stop It: Verify legal settlements through your lawyer or official court documents. Be cautious of unsolicited settlement offers and consult with a legal professional before taking action.
47. AI-Generated Fake Resumes
Scammers create fake AI-generated resumes to apply for jobs, often leading to identity theft or financial loss for the employer.
How to Stop It: Verify candidates’ credentials and work history through official channels. Use background check services and conduct thorough interviews.
48. AI-Enhanced Fake Charity Auctions
Scammers use AI to create fake charity auctions, stealing money from unsuspecting donors.
How to Stop It: Verify charity auctions through the organizing charity’s official website. Be cautious of unsolicited offers to participate in auctions and check the legitimacy of the platform.
49. AI-Powered Fake Event Tickets
Scammers use AI to create fake event tickets, selling them to unsuspecting buyers who end up unable to attend the event.
How to Stop It: Purchase event tickets only from authorized sellers and platforms. Verify the ticket’s authenticity before making any payments.
50. AI in Fake AI Scams
Yes, you read that right—scammers are now using AI to create fake AI-related scams, promising cutting-edge AI technology that doesn’t exist.
How to Stop It: Be skeptical of AI products or services that seem too advanced or secretive. Research thoroughly, ask for demonstrations, and consult with experts in the field before investing.
AI has revolutionized many aspects of our lives, but it has also given scammers new tools to deceive and exploit. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from these AI-driven scams. Always research thoroughly, verify the legitimacy of offers, and trust your instincts—if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.