Cyber threats don’t need costumes to be frightening. This Halloween, we’re highlighting some of the more sophisticated and scary scams emerging online, threats like deepfakes videos, voice cloning, and romance scams. These scams are harder to detect, often highly targeted, and designed to exploit trust in new ways.

Deepfake Deception

What is it? 

Deepfakes videos are highly convincing fake videos generated using artificial intelligence. By training AI on a person’s likeness, such as their face or expressions, scammers can produce synthetic media that appears real but isn’t.

Why is it scary? 

Deepfakes videos are becoming increasingly difficult to detect. They can be used to impersonate public figures, CEOs, or even loved ones, potentially spreading misinformation or manipulating people into taking harmful actions. For example, sending money or revealing sensitive information. 

How to protect yourself 

• Look for subtle red flags: unnatural facial movements or mismatched lighting. Always verify the source before believing or sharing a video or recording. 

• Use available deepfake detection tools, and report suspicious content to the relevant platform.

Voice Cloning Scams 

What is it? 

Voice cloning scams use artificial intelligence to replicate the sound of someone you know, such as a colleague, friend, or family member. Scammers use these synthetic voices to make phone calls or leave messages, often asking for urgent help or sensitive information.

Why is it scary? 

Cloned voices can sound alarmingly real, making them highly convincing and emotionally manipulative. Victims are more likely to respond quickly without double-checking, which can lead to financial loss, data breaches, or worse.

How to protect yourself 

• Be cautious of unexpected voice messages or calls, even from familiar voices. 

• Confirm any urgent requests through a separate channel. 

• Avoid posting voice content online and review your privacy settings regularly.

Romance Scams

What is it? 

A romance scam happens when someone pretends to be interested in a relationship to build trust, only to exploit that trust for money or personal information. These scams typically unfold on dating apps, social media, or even through email and messaging platforms.

Why is it scary? 

Romance scams are emotionally manipulative. Scammers often move quickly, professing love, sharing dramatic stories, or inventing emergencies to push victims into sending money. Because these scams prey on feelings of loneliness or trust, they can be devastating both financially and emotionally. 

How to protect yourself 

• Be cautious of rapid declarations of love or requests for money. 

• Verify identities with reverse image searches and consistency checks. 

• Keep conversations on the dating platform and consult friends or family before taking major steps. 

• Report suspicious profiles or behavior immediately.