That Voice on the Phone May Not Be Who You Think It Is

Key Takeaways

• Artificial intelligence can be used to imitate the voice of someone you know.
• An urgent request for money should always be independently verified.
• Establishing a private family verification word or phrase can add protection.
• Never let panic dictate a financial decision.

Main Article

Imagine answering the phone and hearing your child, grandchild or spouse tell you there’s been an accident. They sound frightened. They need money immediately. Most of us would instinctively want to help. Unfortunately, criminals increasingly have technology that can make a fraudulent call sound surprisingly convincing.

Artificial intelligence can be used to create voice clones from short samples of speech, including audio available online. The FBI reported this year that AI-related complaints accounted for nearly $893 million in reported losses in 2025 and noted that criminals are using tools including voice clones, fake profiles and manipulated video.  The FTC also warns consumers not to assume a familiar-sounding voice proves that a caller really is a family member. 

If you receive an alarming call, resist the pressure to act immediately. Hang up and contact the person directly using a number you already know. If you can’t reach them, call another relative or trusted person who can verify what is happening. Families may also want to create a private word or phrase that can be used to confirm someone’s identity during an emergency—and keep that phrase off social media.

Be particularly suspicious when an urgent story is accompanied by instructions to wire money, purchase gift cards, send cryptocurrency or keep the situation secret. Scammers depend on emotion overriding caution. No matter how convincing the voice sounds, verify before you send money.