Warning signs of an AI scam, according to cybersecurity experts

Cybersecurity researchers say AI is making scams harder to spot because criminals can now produce convincing speech and visuals that adapt as defenses improve. During 2024, complaints to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center totaled $16.6 billion in losses, up 33% year over year, though experts note the true cost is likely higher due to underreporting. A December 2024 bureau warning said generative AI boosts credibility and scales attacks. Vectra AI identified seven warning signs, tied to scam stages: urgency and secrecy, impersonation, persistent follow-through, and a final push for money. The core advice is to verify requests, not just look for technical tells.