AI drives scams to new heights
AI drives scams to new heights
Artificial intelligence is being increasingly used to help criminals steal money from unsuspecting victims in elaborate scams.
The latest edition of BDO’s Scam Culture Report has revealed that criminals across the dark web have swiftly harnessed AI to amplify their illicit activities, actively exchanging information on how to leverage AI for their own purposes, sharing tips on evading the safety measures and ethical boundaries put in place on AI tools such as ChatGPT.
BDO's forensic services partner, Stan Gallo said that while governments, industry, tech giants and society grapple with how to best regulate this powerful technology, they’re always going to be a step behind criminals.
“What we’re seeing now is dark web users are also creating their own versions of AI based models, with one such example being the introduction of software similar to programs like ChatGPT.
“These are being positioned as a black hat alternative to mainstream GPT models and cater specifically to malicious endeavours.
“Unlike ChatGPT, these software platforms operate without ethical boundaries or limitations, providing cybercriminals with a platform to increase their own capability and capacity.”
Stan said that the technology across the dark web has become so sophisticated that even criminals with limited cyber skills can leverage the available tools to execute more sophisticated cybercrimes, lowering the entry threshold.
“A recent reported incident that used the voice of Queensland Premier, Steven Miles, for a cryptocurrency related scam attempt, whilst unsuccessful, demonstrated the evolving ability to leverage real voice samples stitched together to try and convince victims of the ‘legitimacy’ of the scams.
“It’s a salient reminder for people to be extra vigilant, treat their interactions with a healthy amount of scepticism, and if unsure, to contact the relevant institutions directly.”
The report also revealed that scammers are increasingly preying on those in vulnerable positions.
“In January of this quarter, Australians lost just over $7 million to this scam type that involves the exploitation of individuals seeking new employment opportunities.
“Scammers are known to be responsive to conditions whereby potential victims are in circumstances of enhanced financial stress. It is possible the observed activity coincides with individuals seeking new employment opportunities in an environment of trying to cope with increasing living costs.
“As we close on the end of financial year, we anticipate that tax related scams will increase with businesses targeted prior to 30 June following lodgement of FY23 returns, before pivoting to target individuals’ refunds from July 24.”
For media enquiries:
Tate Papworth
Manager, Media
E: tate.papworth@bdo.com.au
Ph: 0433 411 189