5 trending digital scams: how AI is making fraud more dangerous

Every day, millions of mobile phone users receive malicious links through SMS, email, or social media. These links are increasingly sophisticated: with the assistance of artificial intelligence, scammers can craft messages without errors and even personalize them to their victims.

Phishing and Smishing With AI

AI-powered scams use personalized messages to deceive even cautious users. Scammers pose as trustworthy companies, requesting sensitive data, passwords, or money transfers. Reports show an increase in phishing driven by AI-generated emails to improve speed and credibility.

Payments Scams

Fraudsters deploy malicious apps that monitor and divert transactions, fake QR codes to mislead payment, and false requests for refunds. Techniques even include impersonating tax authorities or banks, demanding quick responses to fraudulent claims.

Fake Call Centers and Employees

Scammers simulate bank call centers, aiming to capture passwords, install malware, or transfer funds. The rise of synthetic AI voices allows for more convincing vishing attacks, making phone-based fraud much harder to detect and resist.

Fake E-Commerce

False online stores and social media profiles lure victims with unreal deals; after payment (often via instant transfer platforms), no product is delivered. AI tools help scammers design authentic-looking websites and manage deceptive customer interactions.

SIM Swap

Criminals transfer a victim’s phone number to a new chip, gaining access to bank accounts and social media via SMS codes. SIM swap fraud has spiked over 1,000% year-on-year, fueled by AI-powered social engineering and voice cloning. Attackers exploit weak carrier identity checks and automated support systems, quickly hijacking entire digital identities and financial assets.

General Recommendations

• Never click links from unknown sources.

• Always use two-factor authentication.

• Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true.
• Keep your phone and apps up to date.

• Use trusted mobile antivirus software. 

If you want maximum protection for your device, consider downloading security apps such as dfndr security for real-time defense.