AI voice-clone and deepfake scams: how to spot them and set a family safe word
In short: Scammers can now copy a voice from a short clip and fake video calls. If a "family member" or "boss" calls with an urgent request for money or codes, hang up and call them back on a number you already have. A family safe word makes checking quick.
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General information only, not legal advice. Laws and rules differ between countries and regions, so always check what applies where you live, and get professional advice for your situation.
How these scams work
- Voice clones: a short recording, for example from a social media video, can be enough to make a convincing copy of someone's voice.
- Fake video: a "live" video call can show a familiar face that's actually generated.
- The script: an emergency ("I've been in an accident", "I'm in trouble overseas"), urgency, secrecy ("don't tell Mum"), and a request for money, gift cards, crypto or a code sent to your phone.
Warning signs
- Pressure to act right now, or to keep it secret.
- A new phone number, or a call that says "my phone's broken".
- Payment by gift cards, crypto, or a transfer to a new account.
- Requests for one-time codes or passwords. A real family member or bank won't need them.
- Video that glitches around the mouth or edges, or audio that doesn't quite match.
What to do
- Pause. Real emergencies can wait two minutes.
- Hang up and call back on a number you already have saved, not the one that called you.
- Ask for the safe word, or ask a question only the real person would know.
- Never send codes, passwords or money during the call.
- If you've paid, call your bank straight away using the number on your card, then report it to the police.
Set up a family safe word
- Choose a word or short phrase that's easy to remember but not guessable. Not a pet's name or anything on social media.
- Share it in person, not by text or email.
- Agree that anyone asking for money or urgent help must say it.
- Tell older relatives and teenagers, since they're often targeted.
- Change it if you think it's been shared.
Reduce your risk
- Make social media accounts with lots of voice or video clips private.
- Turn on two-step login or passkeys on email, banking and social accounts.
- Talk about these scams with family, especially older relatives. See Getting started with AI chatbots.
Common questions
Can AI really copy my voice from a few seconds of audio?
Voice-cloning tools have improved quickly, and short clips can be enough for a convincing fake. That's why calling back on a known number matters more than "recognising" a voice.
What if the caller knows personal details?
Scammers often find details online or from data breaches. Knowing your details doesn't prove who they are. Use the safe word or a call-back.
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