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How to avoid scams that are created by AI
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The red flags that were once telltale signs of internet scams have mostly vanished, thanks to generative artificial intelligence.
ILLUSTRATION: DEREK ABELLA/NYTIMES
Brian X. Chen
Low-cost chatbots, image generators and voice-cloning tools make it simple for criminals to produce pristine copy, create seemingly legitimate websites and even replicate identities.
AI-powered internet scams have become so convincing that I confess I almost fell for one. While mindlessly scrolling through TikTok videos, I came across an advertisement for a pair of Hoka sneakers marked 80 per cent off. When I tapped on it, a website loaded that looked like an authentic clearance outlet for the shoe brand.
