Fraudsters are increasingly using AI technology to mimic children's voices, creating a new phone scam that preys on parents' emotions. This alarming trend involves criminals making calls or leaving messages that sound just like a child's voice, claiming they are in danger and urgently need money.
According to Home Office sources, just three seconds of a child's speech from social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram is sufficient to generate a convincing voice clone. This development marks a significant evolution of the infamous 'Hi Mum' scam, which has already defrauded millions in the UK.
In this latest iteration, parents receive distressing messages or calls, often detailing scenarios where their child claims to have lost their phone or is in a financial bind, requiring immediate funds to resolve the issue. Fraud Minister Lord Hanson has urged families to establish 'safe phrases' that children can use during emergencies to verify their identity and avoid falling victim to these scams.
The rise of AI-generated scams poses a unique challenge, as it allows fraudsters to engage in two-way conversations with victims, making it even harder to detect deception. Experts warn that this technology could enable scammers to create realistic video calls, further complicating the landscape of online fraud.
As online scams continue to surge, with American consumers losing $12.5 billion last year alone, it is crucial for families to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding against these increasingly sophisticated tactics.