Scams are becoming more sophisticated in 2025, and it’s more important than ever to stay aware of the latest tactics used by fraudsters. From deepfakes to fake emergencies, scammers are constantly evolving to trick even the most cautious individuals.
2025 Scams
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is issuing a warning against new scam tactics, such as using AI-generated content, including realistic photos, deepfake videos, and convincing phishing emails. Additional tactics include scammers impersonating trusted entities, such as banks or government agencies via text, emails, or calls.
Deepfakes
The term “deepfakes” refer to AI-generated content used to mimic real people, including voices, images, and videos. Deepfakes is a tactic used to impersonate individuals, typically in crisis situations.
Example: AI-generated audio clip that sounds like a loved one asking for urgent financial assistance.
Another alarming method using deepfake technology involves real-time calls that seem to come from company executives, law enforcement, or bank representatives. During these calls, you may be told that your bank or company information is urgently needed, that a warrant has been issued for your arrest unless you pay or disclose personal details, or that you’ve missed jury duty or a court date and must pay a fine immediately.
Key Tactics
The FBI has identified 17 common techniques used by scammers, including:
- Voice Cloning: Generated audio clips that mimic the voice of a family member or other trusted individuals
- Real-Time Video Calls: Fake video interactions appearing to involve authority figures
- Social Engineering: Utilizing emotional appeals to manipulate victims into revealing personal information or transferring funds
- AI-generated Texts: Realistic written messages for phishing attacks and social engineering scenes
- AI-generated Images: Synthetic images to create believable profiles on social media or fraudulent websites
- AI-generated Videos: Convincing videos used in scams
- Fake Social Media Profiles: Fraudulent accounts using AI-generated content
- Phishing Emails: Emails that appear legitimate but are crafted using AI
- Impersonation of Public Figures: Creating videos or audio clips that mimic well-known personalities
- Fake identification Documents: Fraudulent IDs or credentials for identity fraud or impersonation
- Investment Fraud Schemes: AI-generated materials to convince victims to invest in nonexistent opportunities
- Ransom Demands: Impersonating loved ones in distress to solicit ransom payments
- Manipulating Voice Recognition Systems: Cloned voices to bypass security measures relying on voice authentication
- Fake Charity Appeals: Deepfake content that solicits donations under false pretenses
- Business Email Compromise: Emails that appear to come from executives or trusted contacts to authorize fraudulent transitions
- Creating Misinformation Campaigns: Deepfake video as part of broader disinformation efforts
- And, Exploiting Crisis Situations: Urgent requests for help or money during emergencies
Protection Efforts
Implementing strategies can help enhance security and awareness against present and future scams. Some protection efforts include:
- Limit online presence: Reduce the amount of personal information you provide on social media, including high-quality images and videos
- Avoid sharing sensitive information: Never disclose personal details or financial information with strangers online or over the phone
- Stay cautious of new friends: Be cautious when accepting new friends or connections on social media
- Check privacy settings: Ensure your profiles are set to private and only accept friend requests from trusted individuals
- Use two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security
- Monitor accounts regularly: Periodically check your financial and online accounts for unusual activity
- Be aware of visual imperfections: Look for subtle flaws in images or videos, such as distorted features or unnatural movements
- And, listen for anomalies in voices: Pay attention to the tone, pitch, and word choice in audio clips
Conclusion
As scams continue to evolve and become more sophisticated in 2025, it’s essential to stay vigilant and informed. Scammers are constantly finding new ways to manipulate technology and prey on unsuspecting individuals. By understanding the latest tactics, like deepfake calls and fake emergencies, you can protect yourself and your personal information.
Always verify the source before taking any action, and if something feels off, trust your instincts. Stay informed, stay cautious, and don’t let scammers catch you off guard this year.