3 Chapter 3: Voice Clones and Deepfakes — Don’t Be Fooled
These days, scammers are using advanced AI to create fake voices and real-looking/real-life videos. There are ways to protect yourself that we will discuss.
What Are Voice Clones?
AI can now copy someone’s voice with just a few seconds of audio. Scammers use this to make phone calls that sound like someone you love.
- You might get a call that sounds like your daughter, grandson, or best friend
- They may say they’re in trouble, need money, or don’t want you to tell anyone
- But it’s not really them. It’s a voice clone.
- o For more information, check out this article by IDR&D
How does these scammers get the voice they are cloning in the first place? It can be from social media videos or posts (think Facebook, Instagram, etc.). A short clip as little as 3 seconds sometimes is enough. Voicemail and phone calls are another place to capture someone’s voice.
The goal of these calls? To panic you, trick you, and rush you into sending money. Keep in mind, these scammers want to pressure you into sending money NOW. They are hoping you’ll react to your emotions.
What Are Deepfakes?
A deepfake is a video or image that uses AI to make it look like someone said or did something they didn’t. While most seniors won’t encounter many deepfakes personally, they may show up in fake news stories, scam videos asking for money, or even misleading social media posts. Just stay alert and it something feels odd, think before sharing it or believing what it says.
How to Outsmart Voice & Video Scams
| Scam Type | What to Do |
| Emergency call from a loved one | Hang up and call them back directly using the number you already have |
| Caller says “don’t tell anyone” | That’s a red flag. Always verify with someone you trust |
| Scam video or shocking post online | Don’t click or share right away. Check with a family member or use a fact-check site |
Tools & Tips for Protecting Yourself
| Tool | Purpose | Use |
| Pindrop | Used by companies to detect fake voices | Ask if your bank uses voice security |
| Truecaller / Hiya | Identify suspicious or fake callers | Download from your app store |
| Google Reverse Image Search | Check if a video or image is fake | Ask a trusted person to help you try it |
| Trusted Family or Friend | Your best defense! | Call them if anything seems “off” or “weird” |
Simple Habits That Help:
- Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. Have them leave a message
- Never send money or gift cards after a surprise call or message
- Ask for a video call or personal question only your real loved one would know
Hypothetical Scenario: “That’s Not My Daughter”
Helen, 79, received a call:
“Mom, it’s me. I lost my phone and need $1,000 fast.”
The voice was spot-on. But Helen remembered her daughter had just texted her earlier that day from her real number. So instead of panicking, Helen calmly said, “What was the name of our first dog?”
The voice paused. Then hung up.
Helen smiled and blocked the number.
Proactive Step: Choose a “family security question” with your loved ones. Use something only the real person would know. Keep it simple and write it down if needed.