As technology evolves, so do the strategies of scammers. The emergence of AI voice scams represents a sophisticated addition to their repertoire, posing financial threats to unsuspecting individuals.
A 59-year-old woman in Hyderabad recently became a victim of an AI voice scam, losing Rs 1.4 lakh. The scam artist, mimicking her nephew’s voice from Canada, falsely claimed distress and urgently requested financial aid, as reported by the Times of India.
The incident unfolded late at night when the woman received a call imitating her nephew. The caller, proficient in her native Punjabi and sounding remarkably like her kin, fabricated a tale of an accident and imminent imprisonment. Urgently, he pleaded for money while stressing secrecy.
“It was uncanny; he sounded just like my nephew, speaking our home dialect flawlessly. He called late at night, claiming an accident and impending arrest, urging me to transfer money in confidence,” the woman shared.
Regrettably, she complied, only realizing afterward that she had fallen victim to a scam. While Hyderabad police acknowledge the rarity of AI voice scams, they emphasize the need for increased vigilance.
“Though AI voice frauds occur infrequently, people must validate the urgency before transferring funds,” stressed senior police officer KVM Prasad.
To safeguard against AI voice money frauds targeting family members abroad, consider these precautions:
1. Verify Identity: Authenticate the caller’s identity, especially in distress situations, through alternate communication channels.
2. Stay Composed: Take time to evaluate the scenario; genuine emergencies allow for verification.
3. Avoid Sharing Information: Refrain from divulging personal or financial data over the phone, particularly under pressure.
4. Direct Contact: Reach out directly to known contacts using verified numbers during emergencies for confirmation.
5. Use Video Calls: Utilize video calls to visually confirm identities and assess situations whenever feasible.
6. Stay Informed: Stay abreast of evolving scam techniques to stay vigilant and prevent falling victim.
7. Report Suspicious Calls: Inform local authorities or cybercrime units about dubious calls, aiding in preventing future scams.
By adopting these preventive measures, individuals can fortify themselves against the intricate web of AI voice scams, securing their financial well-being and peace of mind.
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