Artificial intelligence is transforming old cyber threats into something far more deceptive. Phishing, once recognizable by poor grammar and obvious red flags, has evolved into a sophisticated weapon powered by AI-generated text, voice, and video. With advanced tools now available to anyone with a smartphone, scammers can easily create realistic “deepfakes” — fake videos or voice recordings that convincingly imitate real people. This technology, once requiring hours of editing and expert software, now takes minutes to produce. As a result, AI-assisted phishing attacks are rising worldwide, with cybersecurity experts noting a sharp increase in frequency and precision. These modern scams often impersonate trusted figures — such as bosses, pastors, or family members — and use realistic voice or video messages to request money, credentials, or personal information.

The danger lies not only in the technology but in how it manipulates trust. Emotional triggers — urgency, fear, or authority — remain at the heart of every scam, only now they come with the illusion of authenticity. As AI tools blur the line between truth and deception, vigilance becomes the first defense. Slow down before responding to “urgent” requests, verify messages through a secondary method, and never assume a familiar voice or face guarantees legitimacy. The rise of AI deepfakes is more than a cybersecurity issue — it’s a symptom of an age where deception is digital by design, echoing a world preparing for a time when truth itself becomes hard to discern.

SOURCE: UNC ITS