Regulators are warning that voice-clone scams are happening more than ever this summer. A scammer calls you, and the voice on the line sounds exactly like your son, daughter, or grandchild saying they're in trouble and need money right now.
That voice is fake. AI tools can copy someone's voice from just a short audio clip — even a social media video — and use it to make a convincing phone call.
The trick works because you're scared and acting fast. Scammers count on that.
Here's what to do: hang up and call your family member directly on a number you already know. You can also set up a secret family code word — a short phrase only your family knows — that you ask for any time something feels off.
Don't wire money or buy gift cards based on a phone call alone, no matter how real the voice sounds.
Read our guide on how to protect your family from AI voice cloning scams to learn more.