118% increase in Job Scams because of AI

July 12, 2024

Artificial Intelligence is slowly overtaking our lives, changing how we live, work, and everything. Yes, it has made life easier but at the same time it is also becoming a threat to human existence. This article will discuss how AI has increased job scams daily.

AI-Driven Job Scams

A recent report from the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) reveals good news the reports of scams have decreased by 18% points in 2023 compared to the previous year. However, the job scam rate has increased by 118% overshadowing the positive news and highlighting a serious issue. This alarming rise is credited to identity thieves’ misuse of artificial intelligence (AI).

The Identify Theft Resource Centre (ITRC) report says scammers use AI to create fake job postings on popular job search platforms. So here’s how they usually plan their trap:

Scammers mostly target the most popular job platforms like LinkedIn and even create phoney business websites to lure victims.

After they decide on their targeted victims, they move on to the recruitment process of the legitimate platforms to the safer side.
Those scammers shift communication to email, text, or third-party messaging apps to request personal information such as driver’s licenses, Social Security numbers, and direct deposit details.
Subsequently, they (try to) gather sensitive data.

Wait! There’s more

Scammers are also using AI to create fake voice messages or images of someone the victim would trust with their details. By mimicking voices or faking images of trusted individuals, these scammers gain victims’ trust more easily.

In cases like this, the victim often does not recognize the scam until they share their sensitive information. Victims once trapped start getting either no follow-up communication from the supposed employer or are asked to provide additional login information.

The ITRC advises that the best safeguard against these scams is to verify the legitimacy of job offers through a phone call to the company. This advice highlights how necessary it is to be self-alert in the face of increasing identity theft tactics.

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Make sure you are not the next!

So, as we see, job scams using AI are growing. Just remember to be cautious out there and don’t let scammers take advantage of you! To protect yourself, always scrutinize job offers, verify the company’s contact information independently, and avoid sharing personal details through unsecured methods. Regularly review your credit reports and consider using identity protection services.