Currently, criminals are actively using advanced digital technologies to commit fraud. One of the most dangerous tools is artificial intelligence, which enables the creation of highly convincing fake voices and images.

Using specialized software, fraudsters are able to imitate the voices of close relatives, company executives, and even representatives of government officials. Such technologies make it possible to create so-called “deepfakes” — audio and video materials that are difficult to distinguish from the real ones.

Common Fraud Schemes

• Imitation of a relative’s voice
  A person receives a call allegedly from a close family member informing them of an emergency (a traffic accident, detention by law enforcement, need for urgent medical assistance) and requesting an immediate money transfer.
• Impersonation of a company executive
  Employees receive voice messages or phone calls allegedly from a company executive demanding urgent transfer of funds to a counterparty or requesting confidential information.
• Calls impersonating government authorities
  Fraudsters pose as bank employees, law enforcement officers, or other officials, reporting allegedly suspicious account transactions and convincing individuals to disclose personal data or transfer funds to a “secure account.”
• Creation of fake video messages
  Using artificial intelligence technologies, criminals generate videos featuring familiar individuals or officials, increasing credibility and reducing vigilance.

Fraud Prevention Measures

To protect yourself from such criminal activities, it is recommended that you do following actions:

• avoid making hasty decisions under the influence of emotional pressure;
• when receiving an alarming call, end the conversation and independently contact the relative or organization using an official phone number;
• never disclose confirmation codes, passwords, bank card details, or other personal data by phone;
• use two-factor authentication to protect your accounts;
• install antivirus software and regularly update your devices;
• report fraud attempts to law enforcement authorities;
• inform elderly relatives and employees about potential fraud schemes.

Improving digital literacy and carefully verifying received information are key factors in countering fraud. With the rapid development of technologies, the vigilance of citizens and timely information about new fraud schemes are of particular importance.