How to tell if a phone call is an AI voice scam
A call sounds exactly like your grandchild, and they need money now. Here is how to check if it is really them.
Scammers can now copy a person's voice with AI. The FTC explains that all they need is a short audio clip, which they can take from videos posted online. Then they call you sounding just like a loved one who is "in trouble."
You cannot trust the voice alone. The FBI says criminals use these fake voices to pretend a relative is in a crisis and needs money fast, or to demand a ransom.
Caller ID can be faked too. A call can look like it comes from a number you know when it does not.
What to do
- Slow down. Scammers rush you on purpose. A real emergency can wait five minutes while you check.
- Hang up and call your loved one back on a phone number you already know is theirs. If you cannot reach them, call another family member or a friend.
- Ask for your family's secret word. The FBI recommends agreeing on a secret word or phrase with your family ahead of time. Pick one today.
- Listen to the words, not just the voice. The FBI suggests paying close attention to tone and word choice. Does it sound like how they really talk?
- Be very careful if they want money by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. The FTC says these payment methods are signs of a scam, because the money is hard to get back.
- Report it. Tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, or the FBI at ic3.gov. For free help talking it through, call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 877-908-3360.
Sources
- FTC: Scammers use AI to enhance their family emergency schemes
- FBI (IC3) public service announcement I-120324-PSA, Dec. 3, 2024
- FCC: Deep-fake audio and video links make robocalls and scam texts harder to spot
- AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline
Last updated: October 15, 2026