AI Is Fueling the Next Big Scams

AI Is Fueling the Next Big Scams

By Greg Collier

Online scammer networks are becoming more sophisticated, more automated, and more relentless. Even the most tech-savvy people can fall victim. And as Artificial Intelligence tools grow more powerful, criminals are using them to deceive, impersonate, and infiltrate in ways that were impossible just a few years ago.

California’s Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) is warning that AI-assisted scams are now spreading across every corner of the digital world. From deepfake impersonations to AI-generated romance profiles, scammers are weaponizing technology to steal money, identities, and trust.

This guide breaks down the most common AI-powered scams, the red flags to look for, and the steps you can take to protect yourself.

How AI Is Supercharging Scams

Scammers used to rely on typos, bad grammar, and clumsy impersonations. Not anymore. AI tools let criminals:

  • Clone voices from just a few seconds of audio
  • Create photorealistic fake images and videos
  • Generate persuasive investment pitches
  • Build entire networks of fake followers and accounts
  • Automate malware attacks at scale

The result: scams that look, sound, and feel real—until it’s too late.

AI Scams You Need to Know About

Imposter Deepfakes

AI systems compile images from countless databases to create fake photos or videos of real people. These deepfakes may use the face or voice of someone you trust—a friend, family member, celebrity, or public figure—to deliver a message that seems credible.

Romance Scams

With AI-generated profile pictures, bios, and “perfect match” personality traits, scammers build fake relationships on dating apps and social platforms. The emotional connection feels genuine, but the person isn’t real.

Grandparent or Relative Scams

AI voice cloning is being used to mimic the voice of a grandchild or family member in distress. The caller claims to be in trouble and urgently needs money. A simple family password—known only to your household—can help verify real emergencies.

Finfluencers

Some social media investment influencers appear successful but have no real financial credentials. AI tools help them fabricate followers, engagement, and even fake performance screenshots to sell risky or nonexistent crypto schemes.

Automated Attacks

AI-generated malware can slip past antivirus software, steal login credentials, and harvest financial data from your device. Experts recommend two-factor authentication on all accounts and frequent password updates.

Classic Investment Red Flags Still Apply

Even with new technology, the fundamentals of scam detection remain the same:

  • Promises of “zero risk”
  • High-pressure tactics urging you to invest immediately
  • Investment performance that looks unrealistically perfect

If it sounds too good to be true, AI can make it look convincing—but it still isn’t real.

New Red Flags Unique to AI Scams

  • Fake AI Investment Platforms
    Companies or trading sites that claim to use AI to generate profit are often running fabricated operations. Your account may show impressive gains, but no real trading occurs. When you attempt to withdraw, the platform disappears along with your money. These schemes are especially common in crypto markets.
  • AI-Generated News Articles
    Scammers create professional-looking articles to support false investment claims. Repeated exposure to this content can make the narrative seem legitimate, encouraging victims to “buy in” based on manufactured credibility.
  • Fake Social Media Accounts
    Investment pitches shared online may be surrounded by AI-generated followers, cloned profiles, or bot accounts to simulate popularity and trust. Be cautious of opportunities that offer commissions for recruiting new investors, and always research the individual or company independently.

Protect Yourself Before You Get Scammed

  • Slow down and verify unexpected calls, messages, or investment tips.
  • Use a family password for emergency calls.
  • Turn on two-factor authentication on all accounts.
  • Update your passwords regularly.
  • Research anyone offering financial advice—especially if they appear only on social media.
  • Confirm that investment companies are properly registered and licensed.

Final Thoughts

AI is transforming the way scammers operate, making their tactics faster, more convincing, and harder to detect. But the same rule still applies: urgency is the enemy of safety. Take a moment to verify, research, or ask questions before you respond.

A quick pause could be the difference between keeping your money and losing it to a machine-powered scam.

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