Scams and Frauds in the Age of AI and Cryptocurrencies
Scams are not a new phenomenon, as fraud has existed as long as human greed. Scammers thrive on exploiting vulnerable and uninformed users, adapting to dominant technologies and trends.
In 2025, scammers utilize AI, cryptocurrencies, and stolen personal data as their primary tools. They exploit the emotions of their targets, including duty, fear, and hope. Duty can manifest as following instructions from impersonated bosses or coworkers, while fear often involves a loved one in distress, also impersonated by scammers. Hope is typically centered around investment schemes or job opportunities.
Artificial intelligence has become cheap, accessible, and effective, allowing scammers to mimic reality with precision. They use AI-generated audio or video to impersonate CEOs, managers, or family members in distress.
Scammers exploit the same AI tools used by businesses for advertising and customer support to deceive their targets.
Author's summary: Scammers adapt to new technologies like AI and cryptocurrencies to exploit vulnerable users.
- AI-generated audio and video are used to impersonate individuals.
- Cryptocurrencies and stolen personal data are exploited by scammers.
- Emotions such as duty, fear, and hope are used to manipulate targets.