Why This Matters
AI scams are exploding. In 2023 alone, Americans lost over $10 billion to online fraud, with many scams powered by AI voices, fake websites, and emails that looked real.
This module will protect you. By the end, you’ll know:
- The top AI scams targeting people right now.
- A simple checklist you can run in 3 seconds before clicking anything.
- Exactly how to respond if you think you’ve been targeted.
Common AI Scams You Must Recognize
- Voice Scams (“Grandparent Scam 2.0”)
- Scammers copy your loved one’s voice with AI.
- They call in “emergencies,” asking for urgent money transfers.
- Phishing Emails
- Look perfect — company logos, urgent warnings, even correct grammar.
- They pressure you to “log in” or “reset your password” → fake site.
- Fake Websites
- Identical clones of banks, Amazon, PayPal, or government portals.
- Purpose: steal your login or payment details.
- Investment & Crypto Scams
- “AI-powered trading bots” promising guaranteed profit.
- Reality: you lose everything.
The 3-Second Scan Rule (Safety Tip)
Before clicking or replying, pause and ask:
- Who is contacting me?
- What are they asking for?
- Where is the link going?
– If unexpected or urgent, assume red flag.
– No real bank or company ever asks for passwords, wire transfers, or gift cards.
– Hover over it. If the URL looks odd or mismatched, don’t click.
⚠️ If one piece feels off, stop. Call the company or family member using the official phone number.
Interactive: Spot the Scam
Let’s test your instinct. Which of these is a scam?
- Email 1: “Your package is delayed. Click here to update your address.”
- Email 2: “Your bank noticed suspicious activity. Please call the number on the back of your card immediately.”
Answer: Email #1 is the scam. The link goes to a fake site. #2 is safe because it tells you to use your bank’s official contact.
🎥 Watch This (2 Minutes)
Real example of an AI voice scam that fooled families.
For a deeper dive into today’s most common AI scams — and how to stay ahead of them — we’ve included a longer video resource below. Watch it if you’d like a more detailed breakdown and extra protection tips: ↓
Safety Rules That Always Work
- Type official web addresses yourself — don’t trust links.
- Hang up & call back using the official phone number.
- Double-check “family emergencies” with another relative before sending taking action (ex. sending money).
- Assume urgency = red flag.
📄 Download & Share
Print it. Keep it near your phone or computer.
💡 Bonus: Share it with a friend or family member. Protecting them makes you safer too.
🔒 Smart & Safe AI Promise
At Smart & Safe AI, we’ll never overwhelm you with jargon or fear.
We’ll always give you practical tools and plain-language guides that make AI safe, simple, and useful.
Up Next:
In the next module, you’ll learn the essentials of ChatGPT:
What it is, how it works, and the smartest ways to start using it in your daily life.
We’ll cover real-world examples, practical tips, and safety basics so you can confidently explore AI without the confusion.
Click below to get started on Module 3: ChatGPT Basics ⇩
Disclaimer: The information in this lesson is provided for educational purposes only. It is not legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Results may vary depending on individual use. While we update content regularly, AI tools and risks can change over time. Always use your own judgment and consult a qualified professional if you need specific advice.