Tech & Gadgets

How to Protect Yourself From AI Voice Scams

Scammers can now clone voices. Simple family safety steps to avoid being fooled by fake calls.

Editorial TeamNovember 6, 20261 min read

AI tools can now copy a person's voice from short audio clips. Scammers use this to pretend to be a family member in trouble, asking urgently for money.

How the scam works

  • A call or voice note sounds like a loved one.
  • They claim an emergency: an accident, arrest or lost phone.
  • They ask for money quickly, often by bank transfer, gift cards or crypto.
  • They pressure you to keep it secret.

How to protect your family

  1. Agree on a family code word that only you know.
  2. Hang up and call back on the person's usual number.
  3. Ask a personal question only they would know.
  4. Slow down — urgency is a red flag.
  5. Never pay by gift cards or crypto to someone on the phone.
Talk to older relativesShare this with parents and grandparents, who are often targeted.

Reduce your exposure

Consider who can see videos with your voice on public social media, and review privacy settings.

If you've been targeted

Contact your bank immediately if you've sent money, and report the scam to your country's fraud reporting service.

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Written by Editorial Team

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