Hackers are now using AI chatbots to target individuals more effectively and at a lower cost. While it’s important to stay aware of potential threats, it’s a good idea to understand the latest tactics hackers use to exploit people. AI tools are making scams more sophisticated and harder to detect, so here’s how hackers are using them to trick people.
How Do Hackers Use AI to Choose Their Victims?
Hackers rely on social media profiles to help them scam people. They either create fake profiles or hijack real accounts to exploit the trust of the people in their network. AI chatbots can scrape social media for photos, posts, and bios, creating realistic fake accounts. Once these accounts are set up, they send friend requests to people in the victim’s contact list, making it seem like they are interacting with someone they know.
When an account is compromised, AI tools can analyze past conversations, uncover hidden relationships, and even imitate the victim’s speech patterns. This allows hackers to engage in targeted scams such as phishing, fake emergencies, financial requests, or asking for sensitive information.
Types of AI-Powered Scams You Should Be Aware Of
AI Phishing and Smishing Attacks
Phishing and smishing scams are common ways hackers steal login details by pretending to be companies or government agencies. With AI chatbots, these attacks become even more effective. AI can now automate spear-phishing campaigns, which are highly personalized and more likely to succeed. Hackers can even use deepfake videos of well-known individuals to make these scams more convincing. For instance, YouTube had to warn creators about phishing scams involving a deepfake of its CEO.
Romance Scams Using AI
Romance scams often target vulnerable individuals by manipulating emotions and building trust over time. While traditional romance scams require months or even years of communication, AI chatbots can handle the majority of these conversations, including texting, calling, and sending photos. Scammers use AI-generated content to create realistic fake personas, as seen in a case where a neuroscientist lost thousands to an AI-powered romance scam involving deepfake technology.
AI-Enhanced Customer Support Scams
Hackers impersonate customer support agents to steal personal information or trick people into clicking phishing links. AI chatbots can automate these conversations, making them feel more legitimate. They can also be used by hackers to contact real support services like banks and government agencies to gather information or reset login credentials.
Automated Misinformation Campaigns
AI-powered bots can spread fake news and misinformation more quickly and effectively than ever before. These bots create and interact with posts on social media, turning public opinion in favor of a particular narrative or website. Misinformation can be mixed with fraudulent offers, tricking people into clicking malicious links. Since these posts often go viral before they can be fact-checked, misinformation spreads rapidly.
How to Protect Yourself from AI-Powered Scams
Limit Personal Information Sharing
To avoid being targeted, be cautious about the information you share online. Scammers use personal details to craft more effective attacks.
Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Communication
If you receive an unexpected call, message, or email from someone you don’t know, verify their identity before responding. Contact friends or family members to confirm the legitimacy of the communication.
Beware of Deepfakes
AI-generated deepfakes can imitate voices and appearances, making it difficult to trust video calls or messages. Always check for verification badges or confirm identities through other means.
Think Before You Click
Phishing links disguised as normal social media posts are still common. Check for signs like strange play buttons or mixed content that looks like a video but is actually an image or link. It’s best to avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Verify News and Posts
To avoid being misled by false information, always cross-check news and posts with multiple reliable sources. Be cautious of comment sections, where bots often use usernames with random numbers to appear legitimate.
AI chatbots offer convenience but also empower hackers with advanced tools for scamming. While these scams follow similar patterns to traditional ones, they are becoming more widespread and harder to detect. By staying informed, verifying online interactions, and being cautious with personal information, you can protect yourself from these evolving threats.
