Punjab National Bank (PNB) (Wiki Commons)
New Delhi: While artificial intelligence (AI) has made many tasks easier for people, cybercriminals are also using it to devise new methods of online fraud. Scammers are no longer limited to fake links or messages posing as banks. With AI, fraudsters can imitate the voice and face of someone they know and trick people into sending money. In such cases, they exploit haste and fear to defraud people.
In light of this threat, Punjab National Bank (PNB) has advised its customers to be vigilant against AI-related cyberattacks and online fraud. So, what should one do if they receive a call in a loved one's voice demanding money or a message about their bank account being closed? Let's explore how AI-based fraud works and what precautions are necessary to avoid it.
AI voice cloning is a method that can create a voice that mimics someone else's. Scammers can use available audio or other recordings to imitate a familiar voice. They can then call and feign a problem and ask for immediate money. However, the existence of voice impersonation technology doesn't mean every unknown call is generated by AI. However, it's also unsafe to assume someone's identity based solely on voice recognition.
PNB Managing Director and CEO Ashok Chandra said that in many cases of cyber fraud, criminals exploit people's trust, fear, and haste. They may impersonate the voice or appearance of acquaintances and feign an emergency. Fake emails and SMS can also be sent in a way that customers may mistake them for genuine. The bank emphasized that cybersecurity is not solely the bank's responsibility. Customers should also remain vigilant and not act on suspicious messages or calls without checking them first.
1. Double-check before sending money: If someone you know calls and asks for money in an emergency, don't rush into the transfer. Hang up and call the person's pre-saved number. If necessary, speak with another family member to confirm.
2. Establish a secret code for the family: Family members can set a word or code that only those in the household know. If an emergency phone call is received and money is demanded, this code can be used to verify identity. However, keep the code safe and do not share it with strangers.
3. Don't share your OTP, PIN, and password: Keep your banking-related OTPs, UPI PINs, card PINs, and passwords private. Even if someone posing as a bank official asks for this information over the phone, don't share it. Also, avoid installing screen-sharing apps or giving remote access to your mobile phone at someone's request.
4. Use a different password for each account: Don't use the same password for email, social media, and internet banking. Using different and strong passwords will help prevent a leak in one account from jeopardizing other accounts.
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