AI voice-cloning scams pose growing threat: Starling Bank warns that millions could fall victim to fraudsters using artificial intelligence to replicate voices and deceive people into sending money.
- The UK-based online bank reports that scammers can clone a person’s voice from just three seconds of audio found online, such as in social media videos.
- Fraudsters then use the cloned voice to impersonate the victim and contact their friends or family members, asking for money under false pretenses.
Survey reveals alarming trends: A recent study conducted by Starling Bank and Mortar Research highlights the prevalence and potential impact of AI voice-cloning scams.
- Over a quarter of respondents reported being targeted by such scams in the past year.
- 46% of those surveyed were unaware that these scams existed.
- 8% of respondents admitted they would send money if requested by a friend or family member, even if the call seemed suspicious.
Cybersecurity expert sounds alarm: Lisa Grahame, chief information security officer at Starling Bank, emphasizes the need for increased awareness and caution.
- Grahame points out that people often post content online containing their voice without realizing it could make them vulnerable to fraudsters.
- The bank recommends establishing a “safe phrase” with loved ones to verify identity during phone calls.
Safeguarding against voice-cloning scams: Starling Bank offers advice on how to protect oneself from these sophisticated frauds.
- The recommended “safe phrase” should be simple, random, and easy to remember, but different from other passwords.
- Sharing the safe phrase via text is discouraged, but if necessary, the message should be deleted once received.
AI advancements raise concerns: The increasing sophistication of AI in mimicking human voices has sparked worries about potential misuse.
- There are growing fears about AI’s ability to help criminals access bank accounts and spread misinformation.
- OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has developed a voice replication tool called Voice Engine but has not made it publicly available due to concerns about synthetic voice misuse.
Broader implications for AI security: The rise of AI voice-cloning scams underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and public awareness.
- As AI technology continues to advance, it’s likely that new forms of fraud and deception will emerge, requiring ongoing vigilance from both individuals and institutions.
- The situation highlights the importance of responsible AI development and deployment, balancing innovation with safeguards against potential misuse.
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