Read at your own pace

AI scam alerts, in plain language.

Scammers can use AI to make a message or voice more convincing. These notes explain the source warning and a few practical ways to check before you act.

A familiar voice or polished message can still be a scam

Canadian authorities explain that AI can make messages, images, videos, and voices more convincing. A familiar phone number or a natural-sounding message does not prove who contacted you.

What you can do

  • Pause if a caller or message creates fear or pressure to act right away.
  • Call a family member using a number you already have, not a number in the message.
  • Never share a password, PIN, or one-time security code with an unexpected caller.

Source: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre — Spotting fraud in a changing digital landscape

A voice that sounds like family may be copied

The FTC warns that a scammer can use a short audio clip to imitate a loved one and invent an emergency that demands money.

What you can do

  • Hang up and call the person back on a number you know is theirs.
  • If they do not answer, contact another family member or friend to check the story.
  • Be especially cautious about urgent requests for wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.

Source: U.S. Federal Trade Commission — Scammers use AI to enhance family emergency schemes

Unexpected texts and AI voice messages can lead to fake sign-in links

The FBI reported a targeted campaign using texts and AI-generated voice messages impersonating senior U.S. officials. Messages could try to move a conversation to another app and steal account details.

What you can do

  • Verify a new number or account through a contact method you have already confirmed.
  • Do not open unexpected links or move to another messaging app because a caller asks.
  • Never share a two-factor authentication code with someone who contacts you.

Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center — Senior U.S. officials impersonated

Each date above is the publication or update date shown by the linked source. For a suspected scam, contact your bank or relevant official reporting service using contact details you find independently.