In the ever-evolving tech landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a powerful tool for various industries, including the financial sector. While AI brings immense benefits, it also poses new challenges, particularly when it comes to financial scams. Find out more about the potential risks associated with AI-driven financial scams in New Zealand and get valuable tips on how to protect your personal and financial information.
The Rise of AI in Financial Scams
As AI technology advances, cybercriminals are increasingly turning to AI to create more sophisticated and convincing financial scams in New Zealand. By analysing vast amounts of data and creating personalised phishing scams, AI algorithms can imitate legitimate financial institutions or even familiar contacts. These scams often trick individuals into divulging sensitive information or making fraudulent transactions.
Common AI-driven scams in New Zealand include:
- Phishing Attacks: AI-driven scams aim to lead individuals to unwittingly share personal and financial details by analysing online behaviour and creating targeted phishing emails that seem authentic.
- Deepfake Technology: AI-generated deepfake videos or audio recordings are used to impersonate individuals, potentially deceiving people into authorising financial transactions.
- Impersonation of Financial Institutions: AI can mimic the communication style of legitimate banks or financial institutions, making it difficult for individuals to discern between genuine and fraudulent messages.
Protecting Your Personal and Financial Information
In our 24/7 digital world, most of our personal and financial information exists somewhere online, making it easier and more efficient for us to manage our finances. Unfortunately, this convenience can leave us exposed to financial fraud and identity theft, so it’s vital we take certain steps to ensure our personal and financial information is kept secure.
- Stay Informed: Regularly educate yourself about the latest AI-driven scams and phishing techniques.
- Verify Communications: Be cautious when receiving unexpected emails, messages, or phone calls, and check that communications are legitimate by contacting the sender through official channels before sharing any information.
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA whenever possible, adding an extra layer of security to your accounts and making it more challenging for cybercriminals to gain unauthorised access.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, antivirus software, and applications to patch vulnerabilities that could be exploited by scammers.
- Secure Password Practices: Create strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts and consider using a reputable password manager to keep track of them securely.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly review your financial statements and transactions and report any suspicious activity to your bank or financial institution immediately.
Safeguarding your financial wellbeing
As AI continues to shape the financial landscape of New Zealand, it's vital we remain vigilant against the evolving threat of AI-driven financial scams. By staying informed, adopting secure practices, and incorporating advanced security measures into our everyday lives, it’s possible to prevent financial and personal information from falling into the wrong hands.
For more tips and helpful information, refer to our blog, and get in touch with a Mortgage Express branded mortgage adviser for mortgage advice specific to your situation.
