1. Celebrity Scams in the Age of AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the new shiny object that has captured the world’s attention. It’s also captured the attention of criminal scammers who are using it to make their fraudulent schemes more realistic than ever. One area where AI scams are particularly dangerous is celebrity impostor scams.
For many years criminals have been impersonating celebrities online to steal from fans. Fake celebrity profiles offer fans personal connection, VIP access, investment opportunities or the chance to support favorite charities. These criminals attempt to create a bond through messaging or even a phone call from their “rep.”
With the power of AI, these scams can move from messaging to deepfake videos. Recent
fake celebrity product endorsements impersonating Dolly Parton, Elon Musk and Tom Hanks demonstrate just how convincing these schemes can be.
Posting on a celebrity’s social media account might be exciting, but it could put you at risk of this impostor scam. In whatever way you choose to enjoy your favorite celebs, do so recognizing that an opportunity to personally connect with them is likely a scam.
2. IRS Scams
Tax season isn't just about filing returns; it's also prime time for IRS impostor scams. According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported theft of $5.8 million via these scams in 2023 alone. Here is what you need to know about IRS impostors so you can stay one step ahead of these crooks.
IRS impostor scams often begin with a robocall, instructing you to press a number on your keypad to talk with a live agent or call back using the number provided. Victims often trust these contacts because the phone numbers seem legitimate. However scammers can manipulate caller ID to appear as through the call is coming from the IRS.
Once they have you on the phone, they may demand payment for back taxes under the threat of arrest. The payment of choice in these scams tend to be via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. If you get this type of request, it is 100% certainly a scam.
Sometimes these impostors will claim the IRS owes you an unexpected refund in an attempt to steal sensitive information like your Social Security number or bank account details.
Even if a caller has personally identifiable information of yours to “prove” who they are, don’t believe it. Disengage, and if you’re concerned, contact the entity via a trusted number (a paper statement or by finding a number on that entity’s website).
3. Shred Instead at our free events
There are many things that we can do to protect ourselves from identity thieves. We can use strong and unique passwords, keep our device operating systems current, and monitor our
credit reports. If you want to keep thieves out of your recycling bin, you’ll also want to make sure to shred your sensitive documents. Despite all of the online crimes out there, criminals won’t hesitate to dumpster dive for valuable sensitive personal information. Shredding continues to be an important step in preventing identity fraud.
If you shred papers yourself, a micro-cut shredder offers enhanced security. Otherwise look for businesses that offer shredding (for a fee) or keep an eye you for free shredding events, often offered by nonprofits of local government agencies. Another important protection against identity theft is placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit reports. Learn how to take these free steps at
annualcreditreport.com.
4. Social Security Scams
One of the most popular ways for criminals to steal money and sensitive information is by impersonating a trusted source — often a government agency. According to the Federal Trade Commission, victims of government impostor scams reported theft of nearly $617 million in 2023.
A frequently impersonated agency is the Social Security Administration. Here’s what you need to know to spot and stop a Social Security impostor scam.
Criminals rely on getting their target into a heightened emotional state, such as fear, panic or excitement. They know high emotions can block access to logical thinking. Social Security impostors tend to use fear (your number has been suspended, call immediately) or excitement (you are eligible for a higher monthly benefit).
If you get a call claiming to be from Social Security and you are not already engaged with them on a specific matter, hang up. Concerned? Look up the number to your local office at
ssa.gov/locator and find out if the agency has been trying to reach you.
