Voice cloning

Voice cloning uses AI to copy a person's voice from a short clip, so a scammer can phone you sounding like your son, daughter or boss.

Voice cloning: Voice cloning is the use of AI software to copy how a person sounds from a short recording. The cloned voice can then say anything. Scammers use it to call relatives or colleagues and ask for urgent money, pretending to be someone they trust.

The recording may come from a public video, a voice note or a reel. A typical call says a family member is in an accident or arrested and needs money at once, and asks you to keep it secret. The voice sounds right and the panic feels real, which is why the trick works on sensible people. Be especially careful when the caller refuses to be called back.

Slow the call down. Hang up and call the person back on their saved number, or reach another family member. Ask a question that only they would know, or use your family code word. Real emergencies can survive a one-minute check. Report fraud calls, and call 1930 if money was sent. Tell older relatives about this trick in advance, since they are often the ones targeted.

Tips

• Hang up and call back on the person's saved number before sending any money.
• Set a family code word and use it for emergency money requests.
• Keep voice notes and videos private where you can, since clips can be copied.

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