AI-Written Scam Messages

Scams Are Getting Smarter

Attackers now use AI tools to write phishing emails, texts, and messages. These AI-generated scams have fewer spelling mistakes, sound more natural, and can be personalized at scale.

What Has Changed

Traditional phishing often had obvious red flags:

• Poor grammar and spelling
• Awkward phrasing
• Generic greetings

AI-powered scams can now:

• Write fluently in any language
• Match the tone and style of legitimate companies
• Create personalized messages using publicly available information
• Generate unique variations to bypass spam filters
• Respond convincingly in real-time conversations

Signs of AI-Assisted Scams

While AI makes scams more polished, you can still spot them:

• Unexpected contact: You did not initiate the conversation
• Urgency or threats: Pressure to act immediately
• Requests for sensitive info: Passwords, payment details, personal data
• Suspicious links: Hover to check where they really go
• Too-good-to-be-true offers: Prizes, refunds, investment opportunities
• Slight inconsistencies: Wrong details about your account or relationship

AI Voice and Video Scams

AI can also clone voices and create fake videos:

• Scammers may call pretending to be a family member in trouble
• Fake video calls can impersonate executives or celebrities
• Voicemails may sound like someone you know

If you receive an unexpected urgent request, verify through a different channel. Call the person back on a number you already have, not one provided in the message.

Protecting Yourself

• Focus on what the message asks you to do, not how well it is written
• Verify requests through official channels (call the company directly)
• Do not click links in unexpected messages
• Use multi-factor authentication so stolen passwords alone are not enough
• Be suspicious of urgency and emotional manipulation
• Establish verification codes with family for emergency requests

The Fundamentals Still Work

AI makes scams look better, but the tactics remain the same:

• They want your money, credentials, or access
• They create urgency to stop you from thinking
• They impersonate trusted entities

Slow down, verify independently, and trust your instincts.

Key Takeaways

• Good grammar no longer means a message is safe
• Focus on the request, not the quality of writing
• Verify unexpected requests through a separate channel
• Be aware that voices and videos can be faked
• The core scam tactics have not changed