September 28, 2026
How Scammers Are Using AI Right Now
Security
FDIC-Insured – Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
FDIC-Insured – Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
FDIC-Insured – Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
Artificial intelligence is making fraud faster to produce, easier to personalize and more difficult to recognize.
The objective has not changed. Scammers still want money, credentials, account access or sensitive information. AI gives them more convincing ways to obtain it.
The FBI has warned about family-emergency scams in which criminals use artificial intelligence and social engineering to make victims believe they are speaking with a relative who has been arrested or is otherwise in danger.
A familiar voice is no longer sufficient verification. Contact the person directly using a number you already trust.
In 2026, the Bank of Italy warned about fabricated articles, images and videos that appeared to show Governor Fabio Panetta endorsing investment products. The content included deepfake media designed to imitate him.
Recognition can create credibility without establishing legitimacy. Confirm financial offers through the organization’s official channels before acting.
The FBI has warned that criminals are using AI to create more polished and targeted phishing messages. These communications can incorporate personal details, stronger writing and more convincing context to steal credentials, deliver malware or prompt fraudulent payments.
Poor spelling and awkward language are no longer reliable phishing indicators. Evaluate the sender, request, and destination instead.
A polished email, familiar voice or convincing video can make a scam feel credible. It does not verify who is behind the request. Use the TRB Fraud Prevention Resource Center for practical ways to pause, verify and protect.
Learn MoreThe FBI recorded more than 22,000 complaints involving AI in 2025, with nearly $893 million in reported losses. AI-enabled fraud included fake social profiles, voice cloning, synthetic identification documents and convincing videos involving public figures and other trusted identities.
You do not need to identify the technology behind every suspicious communication. Focus on the request:
AI can make fraud more polished, personal and credible. It does not change the basic defense. Verify the person, the request and where your money or information is going before you act.
AI can make fraud more polished, personal and credible. It does not change the basic defense. Verify the person, the request and where your money or information is going before you act.
