Module #6: Spotting AI-Powered Scams in Email, Text & Social Media

The Threat Landscape

• Email remains the #1 entry point for fraud. AI makes fake bank, Medicare, and IRS notices look flawless.
• Text (Smishing) is growing fastest, powered by AI-generated urgency and personalization.
• Social Media is the newest front line: AI builds realistic profiles, fake charities, and deepfake videos.

Americans lost $10.3 billion to scams in 2023 (FTC). Seniors were the hardest hit group. The tactics are evolving—but the patterns are predictable once you know what to look for.

How AI Changes the Game

Scam Tactics by Channel

1. Email Scams (Phishing)

• Goal: Steal logins or payment details.
• AI Upgrade: Flawless grammar, cloned branding, urgent subject lines.
• Red Flags to look for: mismatched sender address, “account suspended” alerts, links that don’t match.

2. Text Message Scams (Smishing)

• Goal: Push quick clicks or call-backs.
• AI Upgrade: Customized with your name, bank digits, or delivery info.
• Red Flags to look for: payment requests, links shortened (tinyurl/bit.ly), sense of urgency.

3. Social Media Scams

• Goal: Build trust, then extract money or info.
• AI Upgrade: Fake accounts with realistic photos, deepfake videos endorsing scams, romance scams that feel authentic.
• Red Flags to look for: new profiles with few connections, urgent money asks, “investment” opportunities, charities you’ve never heard of.

Smishing Explained(3 minute video):

The Defense Playbook

1. Pause Before Action
• Scammers thrive on urgency. A 30-second pause breaks the trap.
2. Verify Out-of-Band
• Call using the number on your bill, not the one in the message.
• Confirm with a trusted friend before clicking.
3. Multi-Layer Security
• 2FA on email, banking, and shopping accounts.
• Spam filters, AI scam checkers (Norton Genie, Trend Micro Check).
• Report and block suspicious accounts.
4. Build Your Scam Folder
• Save screenshots of suspicious messages.
• Review monthly to sharpen instincts.

Interactive Demo

• Text A: Real UPS delivery notification (Example):

UPS: Your package will be delivered on Tue, Sept 3, between 3:00 PM–6:00 PM.

Track your shipment: https://www.ups.com/track?loc=en_US&tracknum=1Z9999W99999999999

• Clip B: AI-generated fake text (Scam example):

UPS ALERT: Package held. Pay $1.99 to release immediately:

http://ups-delivery-confirm.com/track/19823

Failure to act will result in package RETURNED.

Red Flag Highlights

• Urgency: “Pay immediately” & “failure to act.”
• Odd link: Not ups.com (extra words like “confirm” or “support”).
• Payment request: UPS never asks for fees via text.

🧠 Training effect: Just like practicing free throws, scam-spotting improves with repetition.

Executive Checklist

Key Takeaway

AI makes scams convincing, but the psychology hasn’t changed. They still rely on urgency, fear, and trust exploitation. By slowing down, verifying, and using layered protection, you neutralize even the most advanced AI-powered fraud attempts.

Think of these habits as fire drills for your digital life—automatic, repeatable, and lifesaving when the moment comes.

Up Next:

Cut through the fear and find out exactly what AI can and cannot see about your personal life.

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.