Lesson 9
What AI is and how scammers use it
Computers can now copy voices, faces and writing. Here is what that means for you.
About 3 minutes
What is AI?
AI (artificial intelligence) is computer software that has learned from a very large amount of text, pictures and recordings.
Because of this, it can write, talk and make pictures that look and sound human.
AI is not a person
AI has no feelings. It cannot love you or be your friend.
A chat, a voice or a video made by AI can be controlled by a scammer. The scammer decides what it says.
Seeing and hearing is no longer proof
Computers can now copy a person’s voice, face and way of writing. A scammer may only need a short video or voice note from social media.
- A phone call can sound exactly like your son or grandchild.
- A video can show a famous pastor or politician saying things they never said.
- A message can be written in perfect English.
Incoming call
Unknown number
0812 3456
The caller says:
“Mummy, it’s me, Tobi. Please don’t panic.”
“I had an accident and the police are holding me. Please send ₦200,000 to this account now. Don’t tell Daddy.”
Old warning signs don’t work any more
Bad spelling, a strange voice or a blurry picture used to give scammers away. With AI, a scam can look and sound perfect.
So check what they are asking for, not how good it looks:
- Are they asking for money, a code or a PIN?
- Are they rushing you, or asking you to keep it secret?
If yes, stop. Check using a number you already know.
A family code word
Agree a secret word with your family. If anyone calls asking for money in an emergency, ask for the word.
If they cannot say it, end the call and call them back on their usual number. How to set up a family code word.
Remember
- A familiar voice or face on a screen is not proof it is really them.
- Good English and a polished video don’t mean a message is real.
- Agree a family code word, and call back on a number you already know.
Lesson done. It is ticked on your Learn list.