But there are a few rules of thumb that can help to keep us safe from scams
We all know to be on our guard against fraudsters, but AI is making scams harder to spot.
AI (artificial intelligence) can weed out the dodgy spelling and grammar that used to mark out scam emails and texts.
GPT-4, an AI tool that can produce writing, lets scammers create fake documents that look almost exactly like the real thing. It can even mimic the type of language a company or bank uses.
Once we’ve been persuaded by the email, it asks us to click a link, transfer money or share details.
And it’s not just email scams that are becoming harder to spot.
So-called ‘deepfake’ technology allows scammers to create fake voices and videos that have convinced people they’re talking to a loved-one.
They’re then persuaded to transfer cash to the fraudsters, believing they’re helping out their friend or relative.
How do we stay safe?
The first thing to remember is that anyone can be taken in by a scam.
But there are a few rules of thumb we can keep in mind before responding to emails, texts or calls.
Take Five to Stop Fraud is a national campaign to tackle scams.
Their top tips include:
- Always take a moment to stop and think before sending money or sharing details
- It’s FINE to reject, refuse or ignore requests. If we’re then rushed or pressured, it’s very likely to be a scam.
- If we think we may have been scammed, we should contact our bank as soon as possible.
- There’s also a handy quiz on the Take Five website that challenges us to see how savvy we are against scams.
Image: Tima Miroshnichenko / Pexels
