As the new year begins, scammers are gearing up to target consumers’ money and identity with increasingly sophisticated tactics. According to the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, scams resulted in losses of over $1 trillion in 2024, a trend expected to continue in 2025.
AI-generated scams are becoming more prevalent, making it harder for individuals to distinguish between legitimate and fake websites. Karin Zilberstein from Guardio, a browser extension that identifies malware, notes that scammers are using generative AI to create realistic sites impersonating well-known businesses and government institutions.
The FBI warns of a rise in AI-generated texts, social media posts, and audio/visual content designed to mimic trusted personalities. This is particularly concerning as it makes scams more believable.
In 2025, investment scams involving cryptocurrency are expected to increase. Scammers will use organized crime networks to lure victims into investing with false promises of high returns.
Another growing threat is impersonation scams, which appear through texts claiming to be job recruiters, bank notifications, or family members in distress. Due to the use of AI, these messages now often feature personalized content and poor grammar/spelling is no longer a reliable red flag.
Scammers are increasingly targeting younger demographics through social media platforms, using tactics such as checking for subtle imperfections in images and videos. Be cautious when interacting with unsolicited messages or requests for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or cash apps.
It’s essential to stay vigilant and protect yourself from these emerging scams by being aware of common red flags and taking proactive measures.
Source: https://abc11.com/post/generative-ai-scammers-will-use-artificial-intelligence-more-2025-make-schemes-harder-detect-experts-say/15737747