Staying safe in an AI world 

What older adults should watch for 

Artificial intelligence is reshaping daily life — and rapidly transforming how scams work. Criminals now use AI to create more convincing phone calls, emails and even videos, stripping away many of the warning signs people once relied on.  

Older adults, who often have retirement savings and strong community trust, remain prime targets. Here are key risks to watch — and practical steps to stay safe. 

1. “It sounds just like them” calls
   AI-powered voice cloning can mimic a loved one using only seconds of audio. Scammers pose as grandchildren or relatives in distress, urging immediate help. 
   Protect yourself: Hang up and call the person directly using a known number. Consider a family “code word” for emergencies.  
2. Government impersonation
   Fraudsters pretend to be from Social Security, Medicare or the IRS, warning of legal trouble or benefit cuts. 
   Protect yourself: Government agencies do not demand immediate payment or threaten arrest by phone. Always verify independently.  
3. Fake bank or fraud alerts
   Scammers send urgent messages claiming suspicious account activity and instruct you to move money to a “safe account.” 
   Protect yourself: Contact your bank directly using the number on your card — not the one provided in the message.  
4. Tech support traps
   Pop-ups or calls claim your computer is infected and ask you to grant remote access.  
   Protect yourself: Legitimate companies do not initiate unsolicited tech support calls. Close the message and consult a trusted technician.  
5. Investment and crypto fraud
   AI helps scammers build convincing fake platforms and relationships promising high returns.  
   Protect yourself: Be wary of “guaranteed” profits. Discuss investment decisions with a trusted adviser before sending money.  
6. Romance and relationship scams
   Online friendships can turn into requests for money, often after weeks of emotional connection. 
   Protect yourself: Be cautious about sending money or sharing details with someone you haven’t met in person.  
7. Deepfake videos and messages
   AI-generated videos and images can show trusted figures or institutions making false claims. 
   Protect yourself: Treat surprising or urgent video messages with skepticism. Verify through other channels.  
8. “Recovery” scams
   After a loss, scammers pose as helpers who can recover stolen funds — for a fee. 
   Protect yourself: Legitimate agencies do not charge upfront to recover money lost to fraud.  
9. Pressure and urgency tactics
   Many scams rely on panic — telling you to act immediately and keep the situation secret.  
   Protect yourself: Pause. Talk to a family member or trusted friend before taking action.  
10. Requests for unusual payment methods
    Gift cards, wire transfers and cryptocurrency are favored by scammers because they are hard to trace. 
    Protect yourself: If someone asks for payment in these forms, it is almost certainly a scam.  

A changing landscape 
Experts warn that AI-enabled fraud is accelerating, with attacks becoming more personalized and harder to detect. Future scams may include real-time deepfake video calls or automated bots that build relationships at scale.  

Bottom line 
Technology is evolving, but the best defense remains consistent: slow down, verify independently and never let urgency override caution. A quick pause — and a second opinion — can protect a lifetime of savings.