AI is a wonderful tool, but scammers use it too. Knowing this protects you and your family.
What is happening. Using AI, a criminal can now copy a familiar voice from just a few seconds of audio, taken from a video or voicemail. The FTC has warned about scammers using cloned voices in “family emergency” calls. So a call that truly sounds like your grandchild, saying they are in trouble and need money now, may not be them at all.
How the scam works. The caller creates panic and secrecy: “I’m in jail, please don’t tell Mom, send money by gift card right away.” The fear is the trick. It is meant to stop you from checking.
How to beat it, every time:
- Hang up and call the person back on the number you already have for them.
- Check with another family member.
- Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency for an “emergency.” Real emergencies do not require those.
- Set a family safe word now: a simple word only your family knows. If a “relative” calls in a panic, ask for the safe word. A scammer will not know it.
A quick example. “Grandpa, it’s me, I’ve been in an accident.” It sounds real. You calmly ask, “What’s our safe word?” Silence, or a wrong answer. You hang up. Your family is safe.
What to do:
- Know that a familiar voice can be faked.
- Verify by calling back, and never pay by gift card or wire for an “emergency.”
- Agree on a family safe word today. (Our free Spot the Scam course covers this too.)