AI & Modern Scams
Deepfakes, voice cloning, AI chatbots — the new frontier of fraud in South Africa.
AI tools can make scams look and sound convincing.
1. DEEPFAKE VIDEO ENDORSEMENTS A fake video may show a public figure or news presenter appearing to promote an investment or trading app. Glitches in a video are not a reliable way to spot a fake. Check the company on the FSCA register instead.
2. VOICE CLONING IMPERSONATION A caller may imitate someone you know and ask for urgent help. Verify the request using a separate channel, such as calling the person on their usual number. A family code word can also help confirm who you are speaking to.
3. AI-GENERATED "PROOF OF PAYMENT" A screenshot or message can be faked. Check your own banking app to confirm that money has arrived before handing over goods.
4. CHATBOT CUSTOMER SUPPORT A fake WhatsApp "support" account may use AI to sound convincing. Contact a company through its official app or website instead.
Defence checklist:
✅ Verify urgent requests through another channel ✅ Check payments in your own banking app ✅ Check investment companies on the FSCA register ✅ Agree on a family code word for emergencies