Lost money to an AI scam? We can help you get it back

As an SRA-regulated firm, our experienced UK-based solicitors have helped thousands of scam victims recover lost funds. If you've been targeted by an AI scam, we may be able to help you reclaim the money you've lost.

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AI Scams Explained

How do AI scams work?

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    What is an AI scam?

    These scams use artificial intelligence to generate legitimate-looking messages, images, videos, and even voice recordings. The goal is to trick you into sending money or sensitive information, such as your banking details.

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    How do they trick you?

    Scammers create familiar personas to build trust with their victims. For example, they may impersonate a family member, celebrity, or someone new, like a romantic partner. Because the person seems real, you’re more likely to believe the story and act on their requests. 

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    How do they get your funds?

    Once they’ve gained your trust, scammers use AI-generated content to steal money or information. This could be through a professional-looking fake investment opportunity or by forming a romantic connection and asking for money for so-called emergencies. 

Common types of AI scams to be aware of

AI voice scams

AI voice scams mimic the voice of someone you trust. For instance, you may get a call from someone claiming to be your mum—they say there's been an emergency they need money for. To protect yourself, you could ask the caller to describe a memory only you two know. You could also create safe phrases with your loved ones to use in an emergency, so if an incident occurs you could prevent a possible scam.

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Liam Ben Ari, Head of Crypto Investigations at WRS

Deepfake videos

AI software can produce deepfake videos that promote fake investments or public figures. For example, Martin Lewis was previously cloned to lure victims into an investment scam on social media. To spot deepfakes, watch the video carefully for any lip-syncing that doesn’t look right. Other tell-tale signs include unusual body movements and robotic voices.

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Phishing scams

Phishing scams are becoming trickier to spot. Once easily recognisable by spelling mistakes and poor grammar, fraudsters now use generative AI tools to create professional, error-free communications which trick people into revealing sensitive information. However, there are still signs to watch out for, including overly formal language, a sense of urgency to send money or information, and if someone contacts you out of the blue.

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Why WRS?

Supporting you is our priority. That’s why we provide personalised plans and care around the clock to our clients.

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Falling victim to fraud can be overwhelming and distressing. You deserve expert guidance and support every step of the way. That’s what we’re here for.  

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Frequently asked questions

  • Is it safe to have AI on your phone?  

    Yes, it can be safe to have AI on your phone, particularly if you’re using trusted apps from reputable developers. After all, many popular voice assistants, photo editing tools, and predictive text already use AI to improve your experience. 

     

    But not all AI tools are safe. Some misuse it to spread misinformation or scams. To stay safe, you should always: 

     

    • Download apps from official app stores (like the Apple App Store or Google Play). 
    • Check app permissions and reviews before installing.  
    • Avoid apps that request access to unnecessary, sensitive information. For example, an app that asks to access your contacts or call log. 
    • Keep your phone’s software up to date with the latest security protections. 

  • What are the signs of an AI scam?

    AI scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but you can stay protected by being wary of these red flags: 

     

    • If it sounds too good to be true: Unrealistic promises are a red flag. They could come in the form of a job offer, a competition win, or an investment opportunity.  
    • Unexpected contact: Calls, emails or messages from someone claiming to be from your bank, HMRC, or a service provider, especially if you weren’t expecting them. AI tools are often used to make these look and sound convincing. 
    • Poor lip-syncing or unnatural speech: In videos or calls, look for mismatched lip movements, robotic voices, or strange pauses. These are signs of AI-generated content. 
    • Unusual or inconsistent backgrounds: AI images and videos sometimes contain warped backgrounds, strange lighting, or hands and faces that look slightly “off”. 
    • Generic messages: Watch out for vague greetings like “Dear customer,” or messages that could apply to anyone. These are often mass-produced by bots. 
    • Pressure to act quickly: Scammers often use urgency to stop you from thinking things through. 
    • Requests to move platforms: Be cautious if someone asks to switch from a secure or official app to WhatsApp, text or email. 
    • Deepfake videos or endorsements: Watch out for videos of celebrities promoting investment schemes or products. These can be deepfakes designed to look authentic. 
    • Voice cloning: Scammers can now fake voices with AI. So, if a friend or family member calls asking for urgent money, hang up and call them back using their real number.  
    • Demands for personal info or payment: Never share your bank details, passwords, or pay for a service you didn’t ask for. These are major red flags. 
    • Fake websites that look real: AI can create realistic-looking websites. Check for odd web addresses (like misspellings or extra characters) and avoid clicking on links from unsolicited messages. 

  • How do AI scams work?

    AI scams work similarly to other types of fraud and scams, in that scammers will look to manipulate and deceive victims into sending money, or sharing personal details. There are many different types of AI scams in circulation, but they all look to achieve the same goal.

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