Generative AI technologies, which include tools that create realistic text, images, and audio, are increasingly being exploited by cybercriminals to carry out fraud and other illegal activities. The FBI has issued a public service announcement warning the public about the growing misuse of these technologies.
Fraudsters are leveraging AI to create more convincing scams, making it harder for individuals to distinguish legitimate requests from fraudulent ones. The misuse of AI-generated content is a significant concern for online security, as it enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of criminal schemes.
Generative AI allows criminals to generate content quickly and convincingly. By using AI tools, fraudsters can produce fake text, build fake social media profiles, create fraudulent websites, and even engage in spear-phishing campaigns that appear highly credible.
These AI-generated materials are often free of errors, making them harder to spot and more dangerous. The ability to create large amounts of fake content with minimal effort enables cybercriminals to deceive more people and extend their reach.
One of the most concerning applications of generative AI is in the creation of images and videos. AI-generated visuals can be used to fabricate fake identities, including counterfeit social media profiles and fraudulent identification documents.
FBI Warns of Growing Threat of Generative AI in Cybercrime, Fueling Fraud and Scams
These fake visuals are used in scams, where they help make the fraudulent activity look more authentic and increase the likelihood of success. The FBI has warned that these realistic AI-generated images are being exploited for social engineering tactics, including spear-phishing attempts and other fraudulent schemes.
AI-generated audio and video content also pose serious risks, as criminals can now impersonate individuals—whether public figures or people personally known to the target. By using AI to replicate voices or faces, fraudsters can trick individuals into sending money or revealing sensitive information.
These deepfake technologies make it more difficult for people to trust the authenticity of content they encounter online, as even voices or videos of loved ones can be convincingly replicated for malicious purposes.
To protect themselves from these AI-powered crimes, the FBI recommends several precautions. Users should establish a secret word or phrase with trusted family and friends to verify their identities. They should also inspect images and videos for inconsistencies, as AI-generated content may have subtle irregularities.
Additionally, individuals are urged to verify any financial requests through direct phone calls rather than relying on email or text. The FBI emphasizes that sending money or gift cards to strangers online is highly risky and often leads to fraud. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, individuals can better safeguard themselves against the increasing threat of generative AI in cybercrime.
