Over $3.5 billion was lost to imposter scams in 2025, triple the amount in 2020
The rise of AI scams is a growing concern, with AI scams becoming increasingly sophisticated and convincing. The use of cheap and powerful LLMs and other generative AI tools has made it easier for scammers to target consumers. Here's the thing: these scams are not just limited to older Americans, but also affect Gen Z, who are highly susceptible to text scams.
Readers will learn how to identify and protect themselves from AI scams, and what the latest tech news means for consumer safety.
What are AI Scams and How Do They Work?
The answer lies in the ability of scammers to use AI to spoof voices, clone voices from publicly available audio, and create convincing scenarios. For instance, a scammer can clone a voice from a 3-second audio clip on social media, making it difficult to distinguish from the real person.
Look at the numbers: the FTC reported that people lost $3.5 billion to imposter scams in 2025, with the majority of victims being older Americans. But here's what's interesting: Gen Z is also highly susceptible to text scams, with research showing they are targeted more often than other generations.
- Key tactic: Scammers use AI to create convincing scenarios, such as spoofing a family member's voice or number.
- Key statistic: 42% of people reporting online crimes are older Americans, but Gen Z is also highly susceptible.
- Key takeaway: The use of AI has made it easier for scammers to target consumers, with the costs to perpetrate such swindles becoming negligible.
How to Identify AI Scams
It's essential to be aware of the signs of AI scams, such as unexpected calls or messages from unknown numbers, or requests for urgent payments. The reality is that scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder to distinguish between real and fake messages.
But here's the thing: there are ways to identify AI scams. For instance, if a message or call seems too good (or bad) to be true, it's likely a scam. And, be cautious of messages that create a sense of urgency or panic, as these are often tactics used by scammers.
- Red flag: Unexpected calls or messages from unknown numbers.
- Red flag: Requests for urgent payments or personal information.
- Best practice: Verify the identity of the person or organization contacting you.
The Role of Tech in Preventing AI Scams
There's something that's happening right now to consumers with AI in the hands of cyber criminals. The use of AI has made it easier for scammers to target consumers, but it also presents an opportunity for tech companies to develop solutions to prevent AI scams.
For instance, companies like Savi Security are developing apps that can detect and prevent AI scams. These apps use machine learning algorithms to identify suspicious activity and alert users to potential scams.
- Key solution: Apps that use machine learning algorithms to detect and prevent AI scams.
- Key benefit: These apps can help prevent financial losses and protect consumer safety.
- Key challenge: The constant evolution of AI scams requires ongoing development and updates to these solutions.
Consumer Safety and AI Scams
Consumer safety is a top concern when it comes to AI scams. The use of AI has made it easier for scammers to target consumers, and it's essential to take steps to protect yourself.
Here's the thing: consumer safety is not just about protecting yourself, but also about being aware of the risks and taking steps to prevent them. This includes being cautious of unexpected calls or messages, verifying the identity of the person or organization contacting you, and being aware of the signs of AI scams.
- Key tip: Be cautious of unexpected calls or messages from unknown numbers.
- Key tip: Verify the identity of the person or organization contacting you.
- Key tip: Be aware of the signs of AI scams, such as requests for urgent payments or personal information.
Key Takeaways
- Main insight 1: AI scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and convincing, making it essential to be aware of the signs and take steps to protect yourself.
- Main insight 2: The use of AI has made it easier for scammers
