Want to avoid AI scams? Try these tips from our experts
Hello subscribers! Thanks to all the readers of WIRED’s AI Unlocked newsletter who tuned in to our latest conversation about money and artificial intelligence frauds. I enjoyed interacting with readers and answering more questions live.
If you missed the show, a full recording is available here to watch anytime, as well as the previous two live shows from AI Unlocked series are also available. Subscribers can watch the first one here and on the second one here.
Katie Drummond, Global Editorial Director of WIRED, started our discussion this time by telling us how her father was recently contacted by a scammer who tried to scam him with a voice that sounded exactly like hers. Fortunately, no money was lost during this interaction, but it’s a solid reminder that AI-powered fraud isn’t some future concern, but an issue worth thinking about right now. To protect yourself and your loved ones, you may want to set a secret password which you can use to authenticate each other in emergency calls.
We’re also joined by Andrew Coates, WIRED’s senior editor focused on security and investigations. Couts shared his insights into different approaches used by fraudsters, including how different groups are now using AI-based tools to deeply fake live videos and screw people out of money. He reminded viewers to look out for social engineering methods often used by scammers, such as creating a sense of urgency or encouraging you not to tell anyone about it. You can learn more specifically about AI scam calls here
During the live event, I spoke about my recent investigation into AI Financial Advisors and how it reminded me to remain skeptical of startups that claim to help with money problems. Instead of using my bank details to help me financially, the AI advisors seemed focused on getting me to take out high-fee cash advances or high-interest personal loans.
If you would like to contact me and ask additional, thoughtful questions about using generative AI and chatbot tools in your daily life my inbox remains open: reece_rogers@wired.com. I always enjoy hearing from WIRED subscribers, so no question is too basic or too niche to ask. Our next live event is scheduled for February, so keep an eye on your inbox for more details soon.
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