Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be helpful and entertaining — but scammers are also using AI to trick people in new and convincing ways. The good news: a few simple habits can greatly reduce your risk.

Common AI-Related Scams Targeting Seniors

1. Voice Clone Scams – Scammers can use AI to imitate the voice of a grandchild, child, or friend.

Example: “Grandma, I’ve been in an accident and need money right away!”

Protect Yourself

  • Hang up and call the person back directly using a trusted number.
  • Create a family “safe word” only family members know.
  • Never send money because of pressure or panic.

2. Fake Emails & Text Messages – AI now creates highly believable messages pretending to be from:

  • Banks, CRA, Amazon, Telus/Shaw
  • Medicare or health services

Warning Signs

  • Urgent threats (“Your account will be closed!”)
  • Requests for passwords or banking information
  • Links asking you to “verify” information

Protect Yourself

  • Never click links from unexpected messages
  • Contact the company directly using a phone number you already know
  • Banks and governments do not ask for passwords by email or text.

3. Fake Photos and Videos (“Deepfakes”)

AI can create fake videos of politicians, celebrities, or anyone appearing to say things they never said.

Romance & Friendship Scams

  • AI-generated photos and fake online profiles are becoming very realistic.

Common Tactics

  • Quickly expressing affection or friendship
  • Stories involving emergencies or travel problems
  • Requests for gift cards, cryptocurrency, or money transfers

Protect Yourself

  • Be cautious with online relationships.
  • Never send money to someone you have not met in person.
  • Discuss suspicious relationships with a trusted friend or family member.
  • Do not believe shocking videos immediately.
  • Check multiple trusted news sources.
  • Remember: seeing is no longer always believing.

4. Tech Support Scams

A pop-up or phone caller claims your computer has a virus.

Protect Yourself

  • Microsoft, Apple, and internet companies do NOT make unsolicited calls.
  • Never give remote access to your computer.
  • If unsure, ask a trusted family member or local tech expert.

Best Ways to Protect Yourself

✔ Use Strong Passwords
Different password for important accounts
Consider a password manager

✔ Turn On Two-Factor Authentication
Adds an extra layer of protection to banking and email.

✔ Keep Devices Updated
Updates fix security problems.

✔ Be Skeptical of Urgency
“Act now!” is often a scam warning sign.

✔ Never Share:

  • Passwords
  • Banking PINs
  • Social Insurance Numbers
  • One-time security codes

✔ Talk to Someone You Trust
A second opinion can prevent a costly mistake.

From “An Upbeat Look at The Dangers and Joys of Artificial Intelligence” – a presentation by Richard Ward, Ph.D. At the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre on July 15, 2026.