AI Voice Cloning Scams: When Familiar Voices Can't Be Trusted

Artificial intelligence can make everyday tasks easier, but scammers are also using it to make their fraud attempts more convincing.

One growing threat is voice cloning, a technology that can recreate someone's voice using a short audio sample. 

Imagine getting a phone call from someone who sounds exactly like your child, grandchild, or friend? They're upset, say they're in trouble, and need money immediately. The voice sounds real, but it could be a scammer using AI.

How the Scam Works

Scammers can use audio clips found online, such as videos posted on social media, to create a clone of someone's voice. They then use that voice to make fake emergency calls to a relative or friend, saying they’re in trouble. Their intent is to create panic and a sense of urgency so people respond quickly. 

Common requests include: 

• Wiring money
• Sending cryptocurrency
• Purchasing gift cards
• Sharing account or personal information

How to Protect Yourself

If you receive an unexpected call asking for money or sensitive information: 

• Stay calm and don't act immediately
• Hang up and contact the person directly using a phone number you already know
• Verify the situation with another trusted family member or friend
• Be suspicious of requests that involve secrecy or urgent payment 

Some families also choose to create a private code word or phrase that can be used to verify their identity during emergencies. 

Remember: Even if a caller sounds exactly like someone you know, slow down. Always take a moment to verify the situation before sending money or sharing personal information. When in doubt, hang up, call back using a trusted number, and confirm the story for yourself. 

What to Do If You Fall Victim

If you believe you've sent money or shared personal information with a scammer: 

• Contact your financial institution immediately
  • To reach Broadview’s Fraud Team, call 800-727-3328 and select option 2  
• Change passwords for affected accounts
• Monitor your accounts for unusual activity (alerts can be set in digital banking)
• Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov 

The faster you act, the better your chances of minimizing financial losses and protecting your personal information. 

Remember: Broadview will never pressure you to send money through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers to protect your account. 

Broadview continuously evaluates emerging fraud threats and uses multiple layers of security to help protect member accounts.  If you believe your Broadview accounts may be affected, contact us immediately so we can help review your accounts and discuss available protection options.