As the Christmas shopping season is in full swing, AI is revolutionising industries and enhancing productivity but it is also fueling a concerning trend: discount fraud.
Coupon experts at Voucherbox warn of the ways cybercriminals are leveraging cutting-edge AI tools to create shockingly realistic fake websites, emails, and discount offers to dupe consumers.
Types of Scams
AI-generated fake websites
One of the most alarming trends is the increase of AI-generated fake websites. These sites are often indistinguishable from the genuine pages they mimic, complete with secure-looking URLs and functional payment systems.
Consumers who believe they are getting a deal may unknowingly hand over their personal and financial information to scammers.
Phishing emails
AI is aiding fraudsters in creating highly convincing phishing emails. These emails often replicate the branding, tone, and visuals of legitimate companies, bypassing spam filters and luring recipients into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information.
Counterfeit discount offers
Online criminals also use AI to create counterfeit discount offers that are too good to ignore. By cloning company branding and creating realistic graphics, scammers make it difficult for consumers to distinguish fake promotions from real ones.
How to protect yourself
Double-check URLs
Before entering your payment information, always verify website URLs carefully. Look out for spelling errors or unusual website names; these are common signs of fake websites designed to scam users.
Research websites
Copy and paste the website domain into Trustpilot or other similar review platforms. These tools provide customer reviews and overall ratings to help you gauge the website’s legitimacy.
Be wary of unrealistic offers
If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Scammers often use incredibly generous offers to lure victims.
Similarly, limited-time offers are frequently used to create a sense of urgency, pressuring you into acting quickly without proper verification.
Enable two-factor authentication
Protect your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if scammers obtain your login details, they cannot access your account information without the second verification step.
Scrutinise emails and links
Pay close attention to emails that include links. Watch for minor discrepancies such as typos, altered logos, or email addresses that do not match the company’s official domain; these often indicate phishing attempts.
Charlotte Lumbroso-Baumgartner, CEO of Voucherbox added,
“While AI drives innovation, it also equips cybercriminals with sophisticated tools to deceive even the most tech-savvy consumers.
“Staying up to date with technology trends is crucial to safeguarding yourself in an increasingly digital world.
“Cybercriminals are leveraging cutting-edge tools to exploit outdated knowledge and habits. By proactively learning about emerging threats and adopting the latest security practices, individuals can turn technology into a shield rather than a vulnerability.”
