Title: Beware! Criminals Are Using AI to Clone Voices Over the Phone
Content:
Cybersecurity experts have warned about criminals using artificial intelligence to clone the voices of victims, creating convincing AI audio deepfakes to deceive unsuspecting individuals. This dangerous tactic can lead to financial loss or the disclosure of sensitive information to malicious actors.
Why You Should Never Answer Unknown Numbers
Experts emphasize the critical importance of avoiding unknown numbers and refraining from immediately engaging in conversation upon answering such calls. Chris Hauk, a Consumer Privacy Advocate at Pixel Privacy, advises individuals to let calls from unfamiliar parties go to voicemail. Legitimate callers are likely to leave a message, allowing you to return the call using a verified number.
Protect Yourself from Voice Cloning
It is essential to take preventative measures to safeguard against voice cloning scams facilitated by advancements in AI technology. Curtis Wilson from cyber-firm Synopsys recommends saving important numbers, such as those of your doctor or child’s school, to recognize incoming calls that warrant immediate attention.
The Rising Threat of Phone Scams
In 2022, Americans suffered significant financial losses amounting to $39.5 billion due to phone scams, affecting over 68.4 million individuals. The prevalence of spam phone calls, particularly robocalls, underscores the necessity of implementing robust security measures to mitigate potential risks.
Maintain Vigilance Against Scammers
Simon Newman, a cybersecurity expert, highlights the ease with which criminals can clone voices using just a few seconds of audio, underscoring the importance of exercising caution when receiving calls from unknown numbers. By blocking suspicious callers and diverting them to voicemail, individuals can minimize the likelihood of falling victim to voice cloning schemes.
Leverage Technology for Enhanced Protection
Apple offers a practical solution for enhancing safety by enabling the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature on iPhones. This setting automatically blocks calls from unrecognized numbers, ensuring that only trusted contacts can reach you. By proactively adding essential numbers to your contacts list, you can effectively filter out potential scammers and protect yourself from AI-based voice impersonation.
Stay Safe and Secure
As fraudsters continue to exploit advancements in AI technology to perpetrate scams, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and employ proactive security measures. By staying informed and leveraging tools like the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature, you can fortify your defenses against malicious actors seeking to deceive you over the phone. Remember, caution is key when it comes to safeguarding your personal information and financial assets from potential threats.