New & Emerging Scams
Technology changes — and scammers change their tactics with it.
This page explains newer scam tactics that use technology in surprising ways. The goal is awareness, not fear — you don't need to become a technology expert to stay safe.
Ways Scammers Are Using New Technology
Here are some of the newer tricks scammers are using today. Each one relies on technology that can make a lie sound or look more convincing — but the warning signs are still learnable.
AI Voice Cloning
A caller's voice may be artificially copied to sound exactly like a loved one asking for urgent help.
Deepfake Video Scams
Videos can be digitally altered to make it look like someone said or did something they never actually did.
AI Celebrity Impersonation
Fake videos or ads may show a celebrity or trusted public figure appearing to recommend a product or investment.
QR-Code Scams
A scanned QR code can lead to a fake website designed to steal personal or financial information.
Fake Toll Texts
A text claiming you owe an unpaid toll may lead to a fake payment website.
Wrong-Number Text Scams
A friendly "wrong number" text can be an opening move to build trust before asking for money.
Account Recovery Scams
A message claiming your account is locked may trick you into handing over your password to a scammer.
Why Modern Scams Can Be Harder to Spot
Correct spelling and grammar: Scam messages used to have obvious mistakes. Many now read smoothly and professionally.
Misleading caller ID: The name or number on your phone screen can be faked to look like a trusted contact or organization.
Imitated voices: A voice on the phone can sound exactly like someone you know, even if it isn't them.
Manipulated images and video: Photos and videos can be digitally altered to show something that never really happened.
Convincing fake websites: A fraudulent website can look almost identical to a real company's site.
Because these clues aren't always visible, it helps to pay attention to what's being asked of you rather than how official something looks or sounds.
Focus on Behavior, Not Just Appearance
A message can look perfect. A voice can sound familiar. A website can seem real. What matters most is the behavior behind the message — is someone rushing you, asking for secrecy, or requesting money or personal information in an unusual way? Those are the real warning signs.
When something feels off, remember: PAUSE. VERIFY. PROTECT.