What Are Some of the Common Scams Right Now? (And How To Avoid Them!)

Common scams on the internet are evolving fast, even more than cybersecurity is. Thanks to AI, they are now even more potent.

With the rise of artificial intelligence, we have seen  a surge in online cyberattacks that crippled organizations, individuals and even countries. A recent wave of fraud schemes is taking full advantage of AI tools, deepfake technology, and massive data breaches to target millions of unsuspecting users across the globe. Can you be safe from them? Let’s find out.

New Era of Scamming: Familiar Tricks, Smarter Tech

According to cybersecurity experts, AI is helping scammers create more convincing emails, clone voices, and launch sophisticated phishing campaigns. This makes it harder than ever for people to distinguish between a legitimate message and a cleverly disguised trap.

From job offers to romantic messages and tech support calls, nearly every type of scam has received a high-tech makeover. As scammers get smarter, consumers need to get more vigilant.

Most AI-Powered Common Scams in 2025

1. Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing
These scams involve fake emails, texts, or calls that push users to click malicious links or reveal sensitive info. AI now writes these messages with near-perfect grammar, increasing the chances of success.

2. Romance and Investment Scams (aka “Pig Butchering”)
Scammers build long-term emotional trust—often over weeks—before persuading victims to invest money or send gifts. AI-generated photos and conversations add to the illusion.

3. Job Offer Scams
With job seekers vulnerable in today’s economy, scammers offer fake roles with attractive salaries. Victims are later asked to pay application fees or submit personal documents.

4. Sextortion & Deepfake Blackmail
Predators use AI tools to manipulate photos or videos and threaten to release fake explicit content unless paid. These scams are emotionally devastating and increasingly difficult to disprove.

5. Toll Violation & Tech Support Scams
These classics have evolved. Fake texts claiming unpaid tolls or fake support agents asking for remote access are now automated, well-spoken, and alarmingly effective.

6. Charity Fraud
After every major disaster or conflict, scam donation pages surge. AI-crafted websites and social posts make fake charities look disturbingly real.

What’s Fueling This Surge in Common Scams?

Cybersecurity analysts link this rise to a recent mega data breach that leaked billions of user credentials. This breach gives scammers the raw data they need to personalize attacks and target victims more precisely.

In addition, open-source AI tools allow anyone—including cybercriminals—to generate content, clone voices, and create phishing kits with minimal skill.

How to Stay Safe Online

• Slow down. Never act on impulse.

• Verify requests. Contact companies or friends directly.

• Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages.

• Enable 2FA (two-factor authentication) wherever possible.

• Use security software with phishing protection.

• Educate family and friends, especially the elderly or non-tech-savvy.