2 Chapter 2: How AI Is Being Used to Scam Seniors
You might have heard the stories on the news or maybe from a neighbor when someone receives a strange call from a “grandchild,” a message that looks like it came from the bank, or an offer that feels too good to be true. Sadly, some of these scams are now powered by artificial intelligence. However, in this chapter, we’ll share how you can protect yourself without living in fear. Scammers are sneaky and clever and becoming more tech savvy. But with a few tools and tips, you’ll be one step ahead.
What’s New About These Scams?
Scammers are now using AI to sound more convincing, move faster, and trick people more easily. Here’s how:
- Voice Cloning: AI can mimic someone’s voice using just a short clip (like from a social media video).
- Phishing Emails & Texts: AI writes messages that look real — from your bank, Medicare, or Amazon.
- Fake News or Videos: AI can make photos or videos that aren’t real to scare or mislead you.
Common AI-Powered Scams Targeting Seniors
| Scam Type | What It Looks Like | Red Flag |
| Emergency Call Scam | “Grandma, I need help. Don’t tell Mom.” | Urgent, emotional tone, asks for money or secrecy |
| Fake Tech Support | “We’ve detected a virus on your computer.” | Asks for remote access or gift card payments |
| Bank or Medicare Phishing | “Your account is suspended — click here to fix it.” | Links or attachments, grammar errors, unfamiliar senders |
| Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers | “You’ve won a free iPad!” | Requests for personal details or payment for a prize |
Reminder: Real companies, banks, or government agencies will never ask for your personal info through email, text, or surprise phone calls.
Tools & Tips to Stay Scam-Savvy
| Tool | What It Does | How to Use It |
| AARP Fraud Watch Network | Scam alerts & reporting for seniors | aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork |
| Scam Spotter | Guides you through scam warning signs | scamspotter.org |
| Truecaller / Hiya | Identifies and blocks scam calls | Install from your phone’s app store |
| Nomorobo | Stops robocalls before they reach you | Visit nomorobo.com |
Proactive Tips:
• If someone says “Don’t tell anyone,” (usually from a family/loved one) pause and double-check
• Hang up, then call your loved one back using the number you know
• Use a code word with family members that only you would recognize (I highly recommend this as it’s simple and easy to remember.)
Hypothetical Scenario: “The Grandson Scam That Didn’t Work”
Richard, age 78, got a call at 7 p.m.
“Grandpa, I was in a car accident. Please don’t tell Mom. I need $2,000 fast.”
The voice sounded just like his grandson.
But Richard paused. He remembered what his daughter told him that scammers can copy and mimic voices. So he said, “What’s our family password?”
The voice hesitated. Then hung up.
Proactive Step: Talk to your family about setting up a shared code word. It could be a pet’s name, a vacation memory. Anything you would consider private or only known by family members. That one step can stop scammers in their tracks.