Be wary of new artificial intelligence scams!

Among the many uses of artificial intelligence, deepfakes are among the most worrying. Thanks to these technologies, it is now possible to manipulate videos or audio files to convincingly mimic someone’s appearance and voice. Imagine receiving a video call from a “loved one” who asks for financial help for an emergency. Everything seems plausible: the expressions, voice, context. However, this video could be a well-orchestrated scam, built from content such as photos or videos freely available on social media.  

Fortunately, there are still ways to detect this type of fraud. Deepfake scams, while effective, are not always perfect. Just look at the details: a slightly quirky lip movement, strange changes in lighting or a slightly artificial intonation.

Social networks have become the perfect playground for impostors using artificial intelligence. Using sophisticated tools, they create very compelling fake profiles that can interact coherently with their targets. These fake accounts, with a realistic account activity history, quickly inspire confidence.  

Once this trust is established, criminals exploit their victims to obtain money or encourage them to click on malicious links. These links, often disguised, can install spyware or redirect to fraudulent pages imitating those of legitimate institutions. However, there are red flags to watch out for: inconsistent replies, a profile with little personal content or a sudden emergency that requires you to act immediately.

Phishing attempts are not new, but they have changed dramatically in recent years. By using artificial intelligence tools, fraudulent messages have now become much more convincing. Badly written emails rife with spelling mistakes are a thing of the past. Now, these messages are personalised, well-written and use information retrieved online, such as your surname, first name or details related to your recent activities.  

A classic example: a message apparently sent by your bank, referring to a recent transaction and asking you to click on a link to verify your account details. These emails often play on the urgency of the situation, prompting victims to act rapidly and recklessly. To avoid falling into the trap, always check the sender’s address.

AI-related abuses that target investors are particularly common. Fraudsters use simulated graphics, financial projections and user interfaces to make their proposals attractive and plausible. These scams often promise high returns on such markets as cryptocurrency or other emerging markets. 

One of the strong points of these scams is the way they create an illusion of urgency or a unique opportunity to be seized immediately. This pushes victims to act quickly, without carrying out the necessary checks. It is essential to be wary of offers that seem too good to be true and to check the legitimacy of the platforms before investing.

Fraudulent conversational bots are also on the increase. Under the guise of a customer service or online assistant, these tools often ask you to give them sensitive information, such as your bank account password or other confidential data.  

Although these bots may seem harmless, some red flags should make you suspicious. For example, clumsy formulations, unusual requests or a tone that doesn’t seem natural. If a conversation feels strange, make sure you do not provide sensitive information and leave the site immediately.  

Here are five great tips to effectively protect yourself against these multiple forms of cyber scams:  

1. ING will never ask for your bank account password by text message, email or over the phone.
2. Only use the official www.ing.lu/ website or the My ING app for your banking transactions.
3. Be wary of emails or messages containing suspicious attachments or links.
4. Make sure your software and devices are always up to date.
5. If you have doubts or suspect something is amiss, contact ING directly.

02/2025