Scams are changing fast. Gone are the days of clumsy messages full of spelling mistakes — today’s scammers are organised, well resourced, and increasingly using AI to target anyone, including highly experienced people. Automated bots choose victims, deepfake technology creates convincing voices and videos, and attacks are timed to moments when people are vulnerable.

AI driven scams can even be timed to major events in your life — such as the death of a loved one — when you’re distracted and less likely to question what’s happening. This emotional targeting is becoming more common and more convincing.

AI can also alter documents such as sale and purchase agreements, swapping bank account numbers so deposits are paid to scammers. And when scams happen through third party platforms like social media, recovering lost money is extremely unlikely.

🚩 Common Signs of a Scam

•False urgency — pressure to act immediately “Someone is in your bank account right now!”

•Unsolicited contact — unexpected calls, texts, or messages.

•Channel switching — scammers move you from one platform to another (e.g., Messenger → WhatsApp) to avoid detection.

✔️ What You Can Do

•Check links before clicking — only open links you can verify.

•Slow down — if you’re distracted or unsure, pause. If the scam has already happened, report it quickly.

•Install phone security software — especially if you use banking apps.

•Bookmark login pages — avoid fake websites.

•Use a password manager and two factor authentication.

•Improve password hygiene — strong, unique passwords for every account.

•Create a family safe word — helps verify real emergency calls.

•End suspicious conversations immediately — the longer you engage, the higher the risk.

Important mindset shift: Scams are now sophisticated enough to fool very experienced people. Don’t rely on “gut instinct” alone.

🧰 Helpful Tools & Resources

•Scam Check App — offers deepfake protection and image scanning.

•Spark Safety & Security — ideas and guidance at spark.co.nz/safety-and-security.

•Collider (TrendLife) — emerging software designed to place a privacy shield around the AI models you use.

•Netsafe Scam Support — if you receive a suspicious email, forward it to Netsafe. They strip your personal information and can continue the conversation safely. Visit: rescam.org