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FBI Issues Warning: How to Protect Yourself from AI-Driven Cyber Attacks on Smartphones
The FBI has issued a critical warning about the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cyber attacks targeting smartphone users. From tech support scams aimed at Gmail users to fraudulent gambling apps and banking fraud, AI is rapidly being deployed to facilitate large-scale fraud. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has raised alarms in a public service announcement (PSA) about how generative AI is making cyber attacks more convincing and harder to detect. Here’s everything you need to know to protect yourself.
FBI Issues Warning About AI-Powered Cyber Attacks
In PSA number I-241203-PSA, the FBI detailed how cyber attackers are turning to generative AI tools to enhance the believability of their scams. These AI tools are used to create highly convincing content, correcting for human errors that may have previously raised red flags. The FBI’s warning highlights the rising difficulty in distinguishing between what is real and what has been created by AI, especially as deepfake technology becomes more advanced.
As smartphone users remain prime targets for such AI-driven cyber attacks, the FBI has issued specific advice on how to mitigate these threats. While not all the advice directly targets smartphone users, much of the fraud being committed involves deepfake technology—like facial and vocal cloning—which is commonly delivered through smartphones.
How Generative AI is Used in Cyber Attacks
The FBI’s alert also outlines several alarming ways that generative AI is being used to carry out cyber crimes, particularly in phishing scams. These include:
- AI-Generated Photos: Cybercriminals use AI to create fake photos, making it appear as though the victim is speaking to a real person.
- Fake Celebrity Endorsements: Fraudsters use AI to generate images of celebrities or influencers promoting fraudulent activities.
- AI-Generated Voice Clips: Attackers use AI to create short audio clips that mimic the voice of a loved one or family member in a crisis, asking for financial help.
- Deepfake Video Chats: Scammers use AI to create live video calls with alleged company executives, law enforcement, or other authoritative figures to build trust and pressure victims.
- AI-Generated Videos: Fraudsters create convincing videos to “prove” that the person on the other end of the communication is a legitimate, real person.
What the FBI Recommends You Do Now
To protect yourself from AI-driven scams, the FBI urges smartphone users to take the following steps:
- Hang Up and Verify: If you receive an unexpected phone call, hang up immediately. Then, research the contact details online and call the number directly to verify the identity of the person who contacted you. Never rely on the number provided during the call itself.
- Create a Secret Word: The FBI recommends creating a unique secret word or phrase that is known only to your close family and contacts. This word should be used to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be in an emergency.
- Never Share Sensitive Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal or financial information with anyone you meet online or over the phone unless you can verify their identity through trusted means.
- Report Fraud: If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a financial scam or AI-based fraud, immediately report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
Stay Vigilant Against AI-Based Threats
The FBI’s warning highlights the need for heightened awareness around AI-driven cyberattacks, especially as generative AI continues to evolve. Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly adept at using these tools to manipulate victims, making it harder for individuals to recognize scams. By following the FBI’s advice, including hanging up and creating a secret word, you can help protect yourself from the growing threat of AI-driven cyber attacks on your smartphone.
Stay informed, stay cautious, and don’t hesitate to verify any suspicious calls or messages you receive. Your security is in your hands. To file a report with the FBI visit Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Check out cyberattack warnings for window users.
