FBI warns of surging AI-powered fraud schemes and voice cloning scams

The FBI has issued a warning about the rising use of generative AI in criminal activity, particularly fraud. They say AI tools are making it easier for criminals to pull off scams on a larger scale and with more convincing details.

The latest alert highlights how AI is helping fraudsters create fake social media profiles, write convincing phishing emails, and set up bogus cryptocurrency investment sites. While making fake content isn't illegal, using it for fraud is a growing concern for law enforcement.

Criminals are also using AI to generate realistic profile pictures, forge IDs, and create fake celebrity endorsements for counterfeit goods. AI is being used for scams like market manipulation. Some groups are even cloning voices to trick people in emergency scams, where fraudsters pose as family members in need. AI can also create realistic video content for executives or authority figures to make these schemes seem more believable.

The FBI's alert points out that it's getting harder to tell AI-made content from the real thing. Look out for signs like distorted hands or faces, odd shadows, or unnatural movement in images or videos.

To protect yourself, the FBI recommends setting up secret phrases with family members and verifying any financial requests through trusted channels. They stress you should never share sensitive info or send money to someone you only know online.

This warning comes as AI tools continue to improve and become more accessible, making it harder for law enforcement to keep up.