Voice cloning scam: How it works and tips to stay protected

voice calling scam

ICICI Bank has warned about a new threat involving voice cloning scams. Cybercriminals are using advanced AI technology to mimic the voices of family members, friends, or trusted associates to deceive victims. These scams often begin with criminals obtaining a recording of the target’s voice. Once cloned, they use the imitation to make calls that sound authentic, tricking individuals into believing the requests are genuine.

ICICI Bank’s advisory

The bank emphasised the importance of staying alert and informed about the growing use of AI-driven scams. They urge customers to remain cautious and report any suspicious calls immediately. By maintaining vigilance and following the outlined steps, individuals can protect themselves from becoming victims of these sophisticated scams.

How voice cloning scams work

The scammers typically create a sense of urgency, persuading victims to transfer money, share confidential information, or provide login credentials. These tactics rely on the trust people place in voices they recognize, making the scams particularly effective and difficult to detect.

Steps to protect yourself

ICICI Bank has advised customers to take precautions to guard against these threats:

Be suspicious of urgent requests: Even if the voice sounds familiar, always validate the request through an independent channel before taking any action.

Never share personal information: Avoid giving out sensitive details such as passwords or financial information over the phone, even if the caller seems trustworthy.

Verify unexpected calls: If you receive an unexpected call requesting money or confidential details, contact the person directly through a trusted number or alternative communication method to confirm the request.