Artificial intelligence fraud

How fraudsters use artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the science of making machines that can think like humans.

AI can deal with large amounts of information to do things such as recognise patterns and make decisions.

It can be used to improve things like customer service and help protect you from fraud.

But some fraudsters are also using AI to find new methods to target people and businesses.

How fraudsters use artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the science of making machines that can think like humans.

AI can deal with large amounts of information to do things such as recognise patterns and make decisions.

It can be used to improve things like customer service and help protect you from fraud.

But some fraudsters are also using AI to find new methods to target people and businesses.

How to stay safe from AI scams

  • Fraudsters can use AI to create quickly and professionally things such as:

    • Scam emails, texts and other messages.
    • Fake websites and adverts.
    • Deep fakes: video or audio that pretends to be people you know.
    • Dangerous software, known as malware.

    If they use AI, it may be even harder to spot a scam.

    But there are steps you and your business can take to protect yourself against the dangers of AI.

  • Double-check all messages

    It doesn’t matter what kind of message you get, email, text or social media, always check to make sure it’s genuine.

    One way is to talk with the person or business who’s meant to have sent it.

    Find out how to avoid scam messages.

     

    Confirm any urgent payment requests

    Fraudsters can use AI to make a live phone or video call to pretend to be someone you know to make an urgent payment request.

    Always call the person back on a number you trust or meet them in person to confirm that the call was genuine.

    Learn more about scam calls.

     

    Protect your money when buying online

    Fraudsters may create a website or an advert using AI. 

    It may seem genuine, but if you have to pay a bank account to get the item, be very suspicious.

    Find out how to buy online safely. 

     

    Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA)

    Make sure you create a unique password for every account and website you use.

    If they offer 2FA, use that too as it will give you an extra layer of protection.

    Discover how to protect your business with password security.

     

    Keep your software and devices up to date

    Make it difficult for anyone else to break into your device by having the latest security and software updates.

    Learn more about device safety.

Learn about other scams and how to protect your business