Artificial intelligence (AI) attacks are no longer distant threats but real dangers that anyone could face, warns a leading security expert. Paul Bischoff, a consumer privacy advocate at Comparitech, highlighted the various ways criminals are exploiting AI to target unsuspecting individuals.
In today’s digital age, AI permeates apps, features, and even chatbots designed to mimic human interaction. While many users may not directly engage with AI-powered tools, criminals leverage these technologies, often targeting individuals simply based on their phone numbers.
One alarming tactic involves AI-generated fake voices that can sound remarkably like someone familiar, such as a loved one, to deceive victims. Deepfake audio is particularly concerning because it’s difficult for humans to distinguish from real voices, and almost everyone has a phone number, Bischoff explained.
Voice cloning with AI can be achieved within seconds, and distinguishing between a genuine and fake voice may become increasingly challenging in the future.
To protect against such threats, Bischoff advises caution, suggesting avoiding unknown calls, using safe verification words with known contacts, and remaining vigilant for scam indicators like urgent requests for money or personal information.
However, AI threats extend beyond voice cloning. Bischoff cautioned about AI chatbots being manipulated by criminals for phishing scams, where they aim to steal sensitive information like passwords and credit card details. These chatbots, adept at mimicking human conversation, pose a significant challenge to online security.
Moreover, recent reports have exposed the risks of AI-powered romance scam bots targeting individuals seeking companionship online. These bots, designed to simulate human interaction, often exhibit suspicious behaviors like rapid responses with generic answers or attempts to move conversations to external platforms where scams can proliferate.
As AI integration becomes more pervasive in everyday technologies like search engines and personal assistants, Bischoff emphasized the importance of awareness and vigilance among users. He pointed out that while AI enhances convenience, understanding its risks and staying informed about safe practices are crucial steps in safeguarding personal information and privacy.
With AI set to become an integral part of future technologies like Google’s Gemini and Microsoft’s Copilot, and the upcoming Apple Intelligence for iPhones, Bischoff stressed the need for users to stay informed and cautious amidst the evolving landscape of AI-driven innovations.
