What Is AI Fraud?
AI fraud occurs when scammers use artificial intelligence tools to make their scams more convincing. These tools can:
- Clone a person's voice
- Create realistic fake videos ("deepfakes")
- Write highly personalized phishing emails and text messages
- Impersonate financial institutions or government agencies
- Mimic family members in distress
Because AI can replicate voices and writing styles, scams may sound urgent, emotional, and authentic.
Common AI-Driven Scams
Voice Cloning Scams
You receive a call that sounds like a loved one saying they're in trouble and need money immediately. AI technology can replicate a voice from just a short audio clip.
AI-Generated Phishing Messages
Emails or texts that look professional, personalized, and free of spelling errors, often pretending to be from your credit union, a delivery service, or a government agency.
Deepfake Video Scams
Scammers create realistic videos of company leaders or public officials to promote fake investments or request transfers.
Business Email Compromise (BEC)
Criminals use AI to impersonate executives or vendors and request urgent wire transfers or payment changes.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Urgent requests for money or gift cards
- Pressure to act "right now"
- Requests to keep the situation secret
- Unusual payment methods (crypto, wire transfers, prepaid cards)
- Slight changes in email addresses or phone numbers
- Messages asking you to "verify" login credentials
If something feels off, pause and verify.
How to Protect Yourself
Verify Before You Trust
If you receive a call from a loved one asking for money:
- Hang up.
- Call them directly at a number you already have saved.
If someone claims to be from our credit union:
- Do not use the number in the message.
- Contact us directly using the phone number listed on our official website or your card.
Strengthen Your Account Security
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Never share one-time passcodes with anyone, even if they claim to be from your financial institution.
We will never ask for your password, PIN, or one-time verification code.
Limit Personal Information Online
AI tools gather information from social media to personalize scams. Avoid posting:
- Your full birthdate
- Travel plans in real time
- Answers to common security questions
- Photos of IDs, checks, or account information
Create a Family "Safe Word"
Establish a secret word or phrase with family members to use in emergencies. If someone calls claiming to be a loved one in distress, ask for the safe word.
Slow Down Financial Decisions
Scammers rely on urgency and emotion. Take a moment. Consult a trusted family member or call us before sending money.
What To Do If You Suspect Fraud
If you believe you may be a victim of fraud:
- Contact Baycel Federal Credit Union immediately at (979) 244-3995.
- Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
- Report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov.
- Consider placing a fraud alert with the major credit bureaus:
- Equifax
- Experian
- TransUnion
Our Commitment to You
We use advanced fraud monitoring tools and continuously update our security systems to protect your accounts. But security is a partnership.
By staying informed and cautious, you help stop fraud before it starts.
If you ever feel unsure about a call, text, or email, contact us directly. We're here to help.