Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing many parts of our daily lives. It can help businesses work more efficiently, improve customer service, and create new opportunities for learning and communication.
Unfortunately, criminals are finding ways to use AI, too.
The difference isn’t that scams are completely new. It’s that they’re becoming more believable.
Emails are written more professionally. Text messages sound more natural. Phone calls can mimic familiar voices. Images and videos can be altered to appear authentic.
The good news is that while technology has changed, the best ways to protect yourself have not.
How AI Is Being Used in Scams
You may never know whether AI was involved in a scam - and that’s okay. What matters is recognizing the situation, not the technology behind it.
Today, AI can help criminals create:
- Emails that look polished and professional
- Text messages with fewer spelling or grammar mistakes
- Phone calls that imitate a familiar voice
- Fake photos or videos shared online
- Personalized messages that reference information found on social media
These tools make scams look more convincing, but they don’t change the warning signs.
Don’t Focus on the Technology
It’s easy to become concerned when you hear about AI-generated voices or videos.
Instead of asking:
“Can I tell if this was created by AI?”
Ask yourself:
“Can I verify this another way?”
That simple question is far more useful than trying to determine whether technology was involved.
Four Questions to Ask
1. Was I Expecting This?
Whether it’s a phone call, text message, email, or video, unexpected requests deserve a second look.
If someone suddenly contacts you asking for money, personal information, or immediate action, take a moment before responding.
2. Is Someone Creating Urgency?
Many AI-assisted scams still rely on the same tactic:
Getting you to act before you have time to think.
Be cautious if someone says:
- “This needs to happen right now.”
- “Don’t tell anyone.”
- “You’ll lose your money if you wait.”
- “I need your help immediately.”
Urgency is often a stronger warning sign than the technology itself.
3. Does the Request Make Sense?
Even if a message sounds convincing, ask yourself:
- Is this something this person or company would normally ask me to do?
- Does this fit with what I know about the situation?
- Am I being asked to do something unusual?
If the request feels out of character, pause before taking action.
4. Can I Verify It?
Verification remains your best defense.
If a family member calls asking for emergency money, call them back using the number you already have.
If your bank appears to contact you, use the phone number on your debit card or open your banking app directly.
If a business requests payment, contact them using information from their official website.
Technology may become more convincing, but verification is still simple.
What Should You Do?
If something seems unusually convincing:
✓ Slow down before responding.
✓ Verify the request using a trusted phone number or website.
✓ Don’t let urgency or emotion make the decision for you.
✓ Contact First Bank of Berne if you’re unsure about a request involving your accounts.
Remember
Artificial intelligence may make scams look more realistic, but it doesn’t make them impossible to recognize.
Scammers still rely on the same things they always have:
- Catching you by surprise
- Creating urgency
- Asking for money or personal information
- Hoping you won’t stop to verify
The technology may be new.
The solution is not.
Pause. Verify. Ask questions.
Not Sure? Start With Us.
If you receive a message, phone call, or email that seems unusually convincing - or simply doesn’t feel right - don’t hesitate to contact First Bank of Berne before taking action.
We’re always happy to help you verify a request and provide guidance you can trust.
Helping you bank with confidence is part of what we’re here for.