Course 8, lesson 74 of 100, Ages 11+
Scams and AI
Spotting tricks before they work
Like I’m 5
Some people use AI to trick others, like sending fake messages that look real. Knowing their tricks helps you stay safe.
The big idea
Scammers use AI to write convincing messages without spelling mistakes, clone voices from short clips and create fake profiles. The goal is usually to get money, passwords or one-time codes.
Warning signs: urgency ('act now!'), secrecy ('don't tell anyone'), requests for codes or payment, and offers that are too good to be true. Hang up, don't click, and check with a trusted person using a number you already know.
Examples
- OTP tricks: 'Tell me the code we just sent you' is always a scam.
- Voice clones: A call in a relative's voice asking for urgent money.
- Fake prizes: 'You won a phone! Pay a small delivery fee.'
How it works
- Notice warning signs like urgency, secrecy or requests for codes.
- Stop: don't click, pay or share anything.
- Check with a trusted person through a number you already know.
Check your understanding
- Someone asks for the one-time code sent to your phone. What is it?
- Options: A scam: never share it; A normal request; A prize.
Answer: A scam: never share it. Real companies never ask you to tell them your OTP. - Which is a common sign of a scam?
- Options: Pressure to act right now; A message from a friend saying hello; A school timetable.
Answer: Pressure to act right now. Urgency is a classic trick to stop you thinking.
Remember
Urgency, secrecy and requests for codes or money mean stop and check.
Talk about it
Agree a family safe word to check calls that sound urgent. What would yours be?
Go deeper
AI lowers the cost of phishing and impersonation. Defences include multi-factor authentication, verification through known channels, and awareness of social engineering tactics.