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Deepfake and AI voice scams: how to stay safe in 2026
AI tools can now copy a voice from a short clip or create a realistic video. Scammers use this to pretend to be family, friends, celebrities or companies. A few calm checks keep you safe.
Published · General consumer guidance
What these scams look like
- An urgent call from a “relative”. The voice sounds right and asks for money fast because of an emergency.
- A celebrity video promoting a giveaway or investment. Famous faces can be faked to make an offer look trustworthy.
- A message from your “bank” or “boss”. Lookalike emails, chats or video calls ask for codes, passwords or transfers.
Five simple checks
- Hang up and call the person back on a number you already know.
- Agree on a family code word that only you know.
- Never pay with gift cards, crypto or wire transfers because someone is rushing you.
- Do not share one-time codes or passwords, even with someone who sounds official.
- Search the offer or video on the brand's or person's official website before you act.
If something feels off
Slow down. Real friends, banks and companies can wait while you verify. If you lost money, contact your bank right away and report it to your local consumer protection or police authority.
Source: U.S. Federal Trade Commission consumer alert on AI-enhanced scams