Artificial intelligence (AI) is a trend that promises to establish itself in everyday life, and this includes the world of digital scams. It is a reality that AI has been abused by criminals to create more sophisticated and efficient scams, deceiving victims more easily and causing more damage.

How is AI being used in digital scams?

AI can be used in digital scams in various ways, including:

• Creating deepfakes: Deepfakes are manipulated videos or audios that make it look like someone said or did something they didn't. Criminals can use deepfakes to trick victims into handing over money or information. Criminals can use deepfakes to impersonate real people, such as celebrities or CEOs, to trick victims into handing over money or confidential information.
• Social engineering: Social engineering is the art of manipulating people into revealing confidential information or performing actions they wouldn't normally do. Criminals can use AI to analyze social media and other online data sources to learn about their victims and create personalized messages that are more likely to succeed.
• Phishing: Phishing is a type of scam that tries to trick people into clicking on links or opening malicious attachments in emails or text messages. Criminals can use AI to identify and target victims who are more likely to fall for their scams.
• Malware: Malware is malicious software that can be used to steal data, take control of computers or extort money. Criminals can use AI to develop more sophisticated and evasive malware.

What are the risks of digital scams with AI?

Digital AI scams pose a serious risk to companies and individuals. They can lead to:

• Data loss: Digital scams can be used to steal confidential data, such as financial information or customer data.
• Financial loss: Victims of digital scams may lose money directly, or may have to pay for data recovery or credit repair services.
• Damage to reputation: Digital scams can damage the reputation of a company or individual.
• Loss of control: In some cases, digital scams can be used to take control of computers or systems, which can lead to serious financial or operational losses.

Real Examples of AI Scams and Protection Measures

Digital scams using AI are gaining new layers of sophistication as time goes by. One notable example is the use of deepfakes to trick company executives. In 2020, an energy company CEO was tricked by an audio deepfake that imitated the voice of the head office director, resulting in a transfer of US$243,000 to a fraudster's account.

Another common tactic is the use of AI to personalize phishing attacks. In 2021, a series of sophisticated phishing emails, supposedly sent by the IT department of a large corporation, managed to fool several employees, leading to the compromise of sensitive information.

How can companies and individuals protect themselves?

To protect yourself against digital scams using AI, one of the best strategies is to adopt a multi-faceted approach:

• Education and Awareness: Ongoing training programs for employees and their families on the risks of digital scams and how to identify fraud attempts.
• Data Protection: Implementation of encryption and strict access control to protect confidential information.
• IT security: Use of robust security solutions such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS) and antivirus to prevent and detect attacks.
• Constant Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of accounts and systems to identify suspicious activity quickly.
• Software Updates: Keep all software and systems up to date with the latest security patches.
• Reporting: Report any suspicious activity or attempted scam to the relevant authorities to help prevent future fraud.

Digital scams using AI are becoming a significant threat to companies and individuals. To mitigate these risks, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.

Asper, as a leader in cyber security in Brazil, offers a complete range of solutions to help protect against these threats. Our services include:

• Training and Awareness: Educational programs for employees on how to recognize and respond to cyber threats.
• Risk Assessment and Implementation of Security Controls: Identification of vulnerabilities and implementation of appropriate security measures.
• Continuous Monitoring and Log Analysis: Real-time monitoring of systems to quickly detect and respond to suspicious activity.
• Identity and Access Management (IAM): Advanced solutions for access control and protection of sensitive data.
• Penetration Tests: Regular tests to identify and correct vulnerabilities in your systems.
• Incident Response Plans: Development of detailed plans to respond effectively to security incidents.

With Asper's help, you can strengthen your organization's security, significantly reducing the risk of falling victim to sophisticated digital scams. Cyber security is not just a necessity, but a crucial investment in protecting your most valuable assets.