Voice cloning technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, with artificial intelligence (AI) now being used to create incredibly realistic imitations of people's voices. While this technology has many valuable applications, it has also opened the door for scammers to use AI voice cloning to dupe unsuspecting individuals.

 

Just recently, I have been reading the article published by CBS News about Voice cloning scams, which is available at https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/ai-voice-clone-scam.

 

One of the most concerning trends emerging is the use of AI voice cloning technology in scams, where fraudsters impersonate loved ones to ask for money or personal information. These scammers use websites powered by AI to easily generate convincing voice clones, making it difficult for recipients to distinguish between what is real and what is fake.

 

 

These scam calls often come at unexpected times, catching people off guard and exploiting their emotions by playing on the belief that their loved one is in trouble and needs help. In some cases, the scammers may already have some basic information about the victim and their family members, making the call seem even more plausible.

 

How do scammers operate?

To identify the best victim, scammers use professional platforms like LinkedIn or search through company register offices to pinpoint potential targets. Once they have selected their victim, scammers gather information about the person's family members through social media, public records, phone directories, phishing emails, and online databases.

Scammers can also use videos posted by relatives on various social media platforms to train AI clone voice systems. They are patient and do not immediately use the gathered information against their victims. Instead, they wait for the perfect opportunity, such as when a family member posts about a special event in the middle of the night on social media, to launch their attack.

How to protect yourself and your family from scammers? 

To safeguard yourself and your loved ones from scammers, select a unique 3-digit code that each family member must memorize, such as 852. Avoid using common information like birthdates, addresses, or easily obtainable numbers to ensure maximum security.

Every time a loved one contacts you over the phone asking for money for an emergency, after ensuring their safety and security, ask for a 3-digit number. If they do not know what you are talking about or insist on the urgency of receiving the money, it could possibly be a scam.

In addition, always be cautious when sharing personal information online or over the phone. Do not give out sensitive information such as social security numbers, bank account information, or passwords to anyone you do not know or trust.

It is also important to educate yourself and your family about common scams and warning signs to look out for. Stay informed about the latest scams and be wary of any unsolicited offers that seem too good to be true.

Furthermore, consider using security features such as two-factor authentication on your accounts to add an extra layer of protection. Keep your devices and software up to date with the latest security patches to prevent hackers from accessing your personal information.

Lastly, trust your instincts and don't be afraid to question or refuse any requests for money or personal information that seem suspicious. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting yourself and your family from scammers.

Stay tuned for my upcoming article on safeguarding your company from scammers. Be sure to follow me for the latest updates and valuable tips.