These days, when you search on Google, you often see AI Overviews instead of traditional links. These Overviews aim to give you quick, easy answers by summarizing information from various sources. While they sound helpful, they can sometimes be misleading or even dangerous.
One significant issue is that scammers are now injecting fake phone numbers into these AI responses. Instead of directing you to legitimate businesses, these numbers lead to impostors who might try to steal your personal information.
Understanding AI Overview Scams
Here’s how the scams work: Imagine you search for a customer service number for a bank. You find a number in an AI Overview, call it, and end up speaking to a scammer. They might ask for sensitive details like your credit card number. This is a growing concern, as reports indicate that scammers are effectively exploiting Google’s AI system to spread their fraudulent numbers.
The problem seems to stem from how the AI gathers information. Low-profile websites may publish these fake numbers along with real company names. The AI, in its rush to provide information, picks these up without verifying their authenticity. Experts warn that this makes users more vulnerable. According to a recent study by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), over 60% of online scams involve impersonation or misinformation.
To avoid falling victim, it’s crucial to double-check important contact information from reliable sources, like official company websites. Users have been sharing their experiences online, indicating a common trend where many have encountered these misleading numbers. Conversations on platforms like Reddit reveal frustration and concern as people navigate this tricky landscape.
While misinformation has long existed online, the rise of AI Overviews has changed the game. They present unverified data as facts, which can easily mislead those looking for genuine help.
Stay aware and take the extra step to confirm information before sharing any personal details. By doing so, you can help protect yourself from these modern scams. For more insights into current online safety issues, you can visit CISA’s Cybersecurity Resources.
Source link
google,search,artificial intelligence,how-to,tips,scams
