Is AI masquerading as you?

What is AI?

Artificial Intelligence “AI” is the development of computer systems able to perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech, and translation.

Fraudsters are now using AI to target individuals and give the illusion they are speaking to someone they may know. Fraudsters can now manipulate voice cloning, phishing schemes, and deep fake scams.

What is Voice Cloning?

Voice cloning is taking a small recording of someone’s voice and making a duplicate. Fraudsters do this so they can pretend to be someone they are not. Often times the scammer will call someone and keep them talking long enough to clone their voice. It is always important to know who you are talking to.

Example:  You get a call from someone saying they are from your financial institution and they want to verify some transactions made, but first they want you to confirm you full social security number, account number and security questions. You give them all of this information on the phone and now they have a clone of your voice with your information.  At this point the fraudster could call your financial intuition, have all your information and the voice is yours.

Signs it’s a Voice Cloning Scam:

• You are contacted out of the blue.
• You are pressured to act immediately, with no time to think.
• The caller is requesting personal or private information from you.
• You are told to keep the caller’s request a secret.

What is a Phishing Scheme?

AI can use phishing attacks in different forms from text messages, links to fictitious websites, social media advertisements, and phone calls. Be aware of what you are clicking on and who you are talking to. If you don’t remember having any connections to something it is possibly a phish.

Example: You receive a text message from a mailing service to track your packaging. Even though you are not expecting a package you still click the link. The link you clicked on was created by a fraudster to gain access to your personal device and all of its content.

Signs it’s a Phishing Scam

• An unfamiliar tone or greeting
• Grammar and spelling errors
• Inconsistencies in email address, links, or domain names
• Treats or a sense of urgency
• Suspicious attachments

What is a Deep Fake Scam?

Just like voice cloning, deep fake scams will duplicate a voice or image in order to gain access to voice automated items. It also involves synthetic identity which can be used to create fake identifications in order to commit fraud.

Example: You receive a call that sounds like someone you know, and they ask you for help as they are in trouble; however, the story is not normal for this individual. You willingly give the information or send money because you think you are helping them, but in reality it’s a fraudster.

Signs it’s a Deepfake Scam:

• Look for signs of an altered video including jerky or unrealistic movements, shifts in lighting or skin tone, strange or no blinking, and shadows around the eyes.
• Listen for inconsistencies. Is the speaker doing something totally out of character, like asking for your money or personal information? Deepfake videos often feature strange word choices, stilted language, and choppy sentences.
• The caller requests money, usually urgently and through a hard to trace method like a wire transfer, gift card, payment app, or cryptocurrency.

Reminders:

• A true Austin Bank employee will NEVER ask you for any sensitive information in order to verify transactions.
• If you do not recognize the text message or link do not click on it.
• Pause before doing anything and ask yourself if this situation makes sense.  Hang up and call the person back with a number you know to be valid.

Be vigilant and work to protect yourself from fraud.  Austin Bank employees are always here to help if you question the legitimacy of something you receive or just have questions.