Tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard are making it possible for bad actors to increase the volume and sophistication of their attacks seemingly overnight. AI tools are becoming cheaper and easier to use, thus lowering the barrier of entry for attackers so scammers can be very convincing. There are some best practices for protecting yourself against scams in general, but with the rise of generative AI, here are four specific tips:
- Phishing- beware of phishing attacks attempting to obtain sensitive information. Generative AI is being used to create fake websites that almost look the exact same as the real website. Check for misspellings in the domain name of email address and look for variations in the logo of the company.
- Code Word- AI cloned voice scams are on the rise. Combined with personal details online, a scammer can convince targets that they are their loved ones. Create a code or secret word to use with your family. So if someone calls claiming to be in trouble, ask for the code word.
- Social Media- set social media accounts private and remove your phone number to reduce your digital footprint.
- Check web addresses- before inputting sensitive information, make sure that you are on an encrypted site; it will start with “https://”. Also you can try looking up the age of a website by searching for the website HERE. For example, Amazon was founded in 1994. If the database says the “Amazon” site you are on was created last year, you know it’s not the right site.
I love the idea of using a code word within the family (#2 mentioned above). What are your thoughts?