Scams are nothing new, but artificial intelligence (AI) is making them increasingly sophisticated—and, unfortunately, more common. In 2025 alone, the FBI received more than 22,000 complaints reporting AI fraud, totaling over $893 million in losses.¹ The same year, more than 3,100 victims aged 60 and older reported a total loss of $352 million to the FBI.²

AI can be used to convincingly mimic real people’s voices, generate text messages and emails that appear to come from legitimate organizations, and create videos that look completely realistic, even when they’re not. It’s an unsettling development in our modern world, which is why understanding how AI scams work and learning a few simple ways to recognize and avoid them can go a long way toward protecting yourself and your loved ones.

What is an AI scam?

AI scams use artificial intelligence to make fraudulent messages, calls, images, or videos. Unlike traditional scams, which often rely on poorly written emails or more obvious warning signs, AI can create realistic voices, images, videos, and messages that closely imitate real people and organizations.

Common AI scams targeting seniors

Anyone can be a target of a scam, but older adults are often targeted because scammers believe they may have accumulated more savings over the years. Scammers may also take advantage of older adults who are less familiar with newer technologies and online platforms.

Some of the most common AI-powered scams targeting seniors include family emergency scams, where a caller uses AI to imitate the voice of a child or grandchild asking for money right away. Others involve impersonations of customer service representatives, bank employees, or government officials who use convincing phone calls, emails, or text messages to pressure people into sharing personal information or making payments. Some scammers even go as far as creating fake social media profiles or online romances to build trust with their victim before asking for money or sensitive information.

No matter the method, these scams can feel very authentic and often rely on creating fear, urgency, or excitement to convince someone to act without taking time to verify the situation.

How to recognize AI-generated scams

AI scams are designed to feel real, which is why it’s so important to know the warning signs. Even when a phone call sounds like a loved one or an email looks like it came from a legitimate company, taking a moment to pause and look for red flags can help you avoid becoming a victim. If something doesn’t feel quite right, always trust your instincts and verify the information before taking any action.

Here are some common signs of a scam powered by AI to watch out for:

• There’s a strong sense of urgency. The caller or message insists you must act immediately, often claiming a loved one is in danger, your account has been compromised, or you’ll face serious consequences if you don’t respond right away.
• You’re asked to send money in unusual ways. Requests for gift cards or cryptocurrency are telltale warning signs, while wire transfers and payment apps should raise concern when the request is unexpected or you’re pressured to send money quickly. Be especially cautious of anyone who insists on a specific payment method or discourages you from verifying the request first.
• Someone asks for personal or financial information. Be cautious if you’re asked unexpectedly to provide your Social Security number, bank account details, passwords, verification codes, or other sensitive information over the phone, by email, or through text.
• The message seems convincing, but something still feels off. AI can create very realistic voices, images, and emails, but there may still be subtle cues, such as unusual wording, an unexpected request, or a phone number or email address that doesn’t quite match.
• You’re told to keep the conversation secret. Scammers often ask victims not to tell family members or friends because they know a second opinion could expose their fraudulent behavior.
• The caller discourages you from verifying their story. If someone pressures you not to hang up, call a family member, or contact the organization directly, that’s a signal they may have malicious intent.

It is always okay to slow down. A legitimate family member, business, or organization will understand if you take a moment to verify a request. When in doubt, hang up and contact the person or company using a phone number or website you know is legitimate. A few extra minutes of caution can help protect your finances, your personal data, and your safety.

How to protect seniors from scams

Even the most tech-savvy people can be fooled by today’s AI-powered scams, but staying protected doesn’t need to be overly complicated. A few simple habits can make it much harder for scammers to succeed.

Pause before acting

Scammers want quick reactions. If you or someone you know receives an urgent phone call, email, or text, take a moment to think before responding or sending money. Never download attachments or open links embedded in unsolicited messages from an unfamiliar or suspicious sender.

Verify unexpected requests

If someone claims to be a loved one, a bank, the IRS, or another trusted organization, verify the request independently—not the number provided in the scam message. Use contact information you already know or find through that organization’s official website.

Protect personal information

Never share your Social Security number, bank account details, passwords, or one-time verification codes unless you are absolutely certain you know who you’re communicating with and why the information is needed.

Keep all devices updated

Install software updates on your phone, computer, and tablet as soon as they’re available. Updates often include important security protections against the latest scams and cyber threats.

Establish a family code word

Talk with your close family members about agreeing on a secret word or phrase. If one of you receives an alert claiming to be a relative in an urgent situation, ask for the code word before responding.

Talk to someone you trust

If you’re unsure whether a request is legitimate, take some time to discuss it with a family member, friend, or trusted advisor before taking any action. A second opinion can often spot warning signs that are easy to miss in the moment.

Trust your instincts

If something feels unusual, confusing, or too good to be true, it deserves a closer look. It’s always better to double-check than to risk becoming a victim of fraud.

How a caregiver can help

As AI continues to evolve, so will the tactics scammers use to deceive people. By understanding how AI scams work and learning to take a few simple precautions against common warning signs, you can greatly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

For many older adults, having a trusted caregiver can provide an extra sense of protection and peace of mind. Our caregivers can help families stay informed and connected and provide a trusted person to talk to before responding to suspicious requests.

Sources

1. McKendrick, J. (2026, April 14). “How to Recognize AI-Generated Scams As They Become Harder to Detect.” Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/technology/article/ai-generated-scams/
2. Human Cybersecurity Knowledge for Seniors. (2026, May 14). “AI-Powered Scams Targeting Seniors: How Artificial Intelligence Is Making Fraud Harder to Detect.” https://seniors.hcsk.org/ai-powered-scams-targeting-seniors/

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