Fraud is on the rise. Scammers stole more than $12 billion in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The number of Americans who are victimized is also skyrocketing. Investment scams, romance scams, crypto scams, and imposter scams are driving much of the increase.

Criminals around the globe have a powerful new tool to use against you: artificial intelligence. AI can make their cons more polished and personal, so you need to be on guard more than ever.

In this episode, we’ll explain how you can fight back: 10 things you can do to reduce your chances of falling prey to a fraudster. And we have two expert fraud fighters taking part in this discussion: Amy Nofziger of AARP Fraud Watch Network, and John Breyault of Fraud.org.

More Info:

Deep Fake Challenge 2025

AI PSA (Show this to Uncle Frank before he shares another fake video!)

More from Checkbook:

Fraud Prevention: Top 10 Ways to Protect Yourself

Credit Cards Have Consumer Protection Superpowers

Scam Alert: Fake Loan Approval Robocalls

Why It’s Safer to Use a Credit Card Than a Debit Card, Especially for Online Purchases

Virtual Credit Cards Help Fight Fraud

Don’t Ignore All Those Data Breach Notices Companies Send You

Related Consumerpedia episodes:

#88 - Cyberthieves Weaponize AI to Perfect Online Scams

#11 - Stop, Thief! How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

#5 - Cyber Crime: A Former Cyber Crook Explains How to Protect Yourself

92 - Thrift Store Shopping Advice