FBI Issues Warning About AI Voice-Cloning Scams Targeting Families
The FBI has warned the public about a growing threat from AI-powered voice-cloning scams designed to deceive families into sending money or sharing personal information.
How the Scam Works
These scams leverage advanced artificial intelligence technology to clone a person's voice using relatively short audio samples, often harvested from social media or voicemail messages. Scammers then use the cloned voice to call family members, typically portraying a loved one in distress or urgent need of help.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Urgent requests for money, especially via wire transfer or gift cards
- Calls from unknown numbers claiming to be a family member in crisis
- Pressure to act immediately without time to verify
- Requests to keep the conversation secret from other family members
What You Can Do
The FBI recommends establishing a family code word that can be used to verify identities during unexpected calls. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and try to contact the person directly through a known phone number. Never send money or provide personal information based solely on an unsolicited call.
The bureau emphasizes that as AI voice-cloning technology becomes more accessible and affordable, these scams are likely to increase in frequency and sophistication.