Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are becoming more advanced every day. From realistic images and videos to convincing messages and cloned voices, AI-generated content can now look and sound nearly identical to the real thing.
While AI can be helpful and fun, it also introduces new risks. Scammers and bad actors are increasingly using AI to spread misinformation, create deepfakes, and trick people into sharing personal or financial information.
At Clearwave Fiber, we’re keeping a close eye on AI developments and want to help our communities stay informed, safe, and confident online.
What Are Deepfakes?
Deepfakes are altered images, videos, or audio recordings created using AI to appear real. According to an infographic released by the FBI and the American Bankers Association, deepfakes may depict people you know, including friends and family, as well as public figures such as celebrities, government officials, and law enforcement.
As AI-generated media becomes more common online, it’s becoming harder to tell what’s authentic. These fake visuals and messages are often used to mislead people or convince them to share sensitive personal or financial information.
Why AI-Generated Scams Are Becoming More Common
AI allows scammers to create realistic content faster and more convincingly than ever before. Fake images, videos, and messages can spread quickly online, making false information appear legitimate.
AI-generated content is commonly used to:
- Spread fake news or misleading stories
- Impersonate trusted individuals
- Create scam calls, emails, or text messages
- Trick people into sharing money or personal details
Being able to pause and ask, “Is this real?” is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Pop Quiz — Can You Spot a Fake?
AI can be used to create fake news, scam calls, or even fake videos of politicians, celebrities, or current events. These tricks can spread quickly online and cause confusion.
Take Northwestern University’s “Detect Fakes” quiz to test your ability to identify real images versus AI-generated ones. After reviewing the tips below, try again and see how your results improve.
Don’t feel discouraged if it’s difficult. AI has become so advanced that even trained professionals struggle to tell what’s real and what’s fake. The most important takeaway is to fact-check before believing or sharing content.
How Scammers Use AI to Trick People
Scammers use AI because it helps them sound more believable and act faster. Instead of obvious scam messages, they can now create content that closely mimics real people and trusted organizations.
AI Voice Cloning and Family Emergency Scams
In 2023, the FTC released a consumer alert warning about scammers using AI voice cloning in family emergency and “grandparent” scams. Criminals can pull audio from videos or voice recordings posted online and use it to mimic a loved one’s voice.
These calls often create urgency and pressure victims into sending money immediately.
AI-Powered Phishing Emails and Text Messages
AI is also being used to create more convincing phishing emails and text messages. These messages often:
- Look more polished and professional
- Contain fewer spelling or grammar errors
- Closely resemble legitimate organizations
Some scammers even use AI chatbots to impersonate investors or romantic partners, carrying long conversations to build trust.
Be Careful What You Share Online
Limit how much personal information, photos, and videos you post on social media. Audio and visual content can be used to create deepfakes or voice clones.
Consider creating a code word with close family members so you can quickly verify real emergencies.
Strengthen Your Account Security
Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. Weak passwords can be cracked in seconds, and accounts without two-factor authentication are often difficult or impossible to recover.
Check out Clearwave Fiber’s Instagram for Cybersecurity Q & A with Supervisor of System Support, David Kleiman.
A reliable home connection, like Fiber Internet, helps support security tools, device updates, and safer online activity.
Signs of Fake Photos
According to gabbNow, it is important to look for:
- Extra or missing fingers
- Warped or blurry backgrounds
- Mismatched earrings or accessories
- Unrealistic hair, teeth, or skin texture
- Odd shadows or reflections in glasses, water, or windows
Signs of Fake Videos
In addition to photo red flags, watch for:
- Lips and voice not fully in sync
- Flat or unnatural-sounding voices
- Blinking that is too fast or too slow
- Stiff or awkward movements
- Shadows that don’t match movement
Signs of AI-Written Messages
AI-generated writing may:
- Sound overly formal or repetitive
- Provide vague or generic responses
- Avoid specifics while responding instantly
Tools to Help Detect AI and Deepfakes
When you’re unsure whether content is real, AI detection tools can help. It’s best to verify content using more than one tool.
Photo and Video Detection Tools
- AI or Not
- Attestiv
Text and Writing Detection Tools
- GPTZero
- Copyleaks AI Detector
- QuillBot
Profile Verification Tips
- Reverse image search profile photos using Google Images or TinEye
AI — Friend or Foe?
AI can be incredibly useful for work, creativity, and everyday tasks. The goal isn’t to avoid AI, but to understand how it can be misused and recognize when content isn’t trustworthy.
At Clearwave Fiber, we’re committed to helping our communities stay informed, connected, and protected online. With fast, reliable Fiber Internet, you get the performance you need to support security tools, stay up to date, and confidently navigate the digital world.
Learn more about Fiber Internet from Clearwave Fiber blogs! and see if service is available in your area at clearwavefiber.com.
