The Background Screaming Scam

In this scam, bad actors pretend to have kidnapped someone you know. In the background you’ll hear screaming. Then, they will demand ransom. Here’s some important information to know about this evil scam – to stay protected!

The role of AI in scams

Artificial intelligence (AI) has long been the popular subject of many sci-fi movies. What was once futuristic now touches our daily lives. Find out some ways bad actors are using AI technology to pull off scams. Also read on to learn about the Background Screaming Scam.

What is AI?

AI is defined by NASA as the theory and development of computer systems that can perform tasks which normally require human intelligence. This includes and is not limited to:

• Visual perception
• Speech recognition
• Decision making
• Translation between languages

A potential for misuse

Computers and robots use AI to mimic human tasks; however, these inanimate objects cannot feel emotions like people do. While computers and robots can be programmed to respond in certain ways, they lack the biological and psychological mechanisms of human beings. Likewise, our brains are not computers. Though AI is beneficial to humans in many ways, such as optimizing operations of industries, it can also be misused as in the case of scams; ultimately posing new threats in the digital world.

How do scammers use AI?

Scammers use AI in a multitude of ways. Here are some examples. Scammers can use AI to generate realistic phishing emails, establish fake websites and ads, and create convincing voice or video impersonations known as deepfakes. In New Mexico, the Rio Rancho Police Department recently warned of deep fake kidnapping calls. In this scheme, scammers pose as cartel members and falsely claim that a family member has been abducted. The scammer then demands money for the kidnapped person’s return. What’s unique about this AI scam is the scammers play disturbing background noises (screaming in this case) to help carry out the scam. Police stress that in this con, all the people the scammers claimed to have kidnapped are safe.

Why is there screaming in the background?

Scammers have capabilities to combine a voice clone (in this case of a loved one) with AI-generated sounds (here, of a frantic nature) to make the call seem real – and create panic. All scammers need to do is collect short audio samples of a loved one’s voice from sources such as public social media or voicemail. Then, they use inexpensive AI software to clone the voice. Scammers are increasingly using technology to pull off scams.

Manipulation

In the Background Screaming Scam, scammers seek to manipulate their victims by playing upon fear and emotion. When people answering the phone are stressed, it interferes with the ability to think clearly. Of course, this is the reaction scammers seek. They want their victims to react quickly – in this case by making the ransom payment. Scammers are often master manipulators. They create fake emergencies or a sense of urgency to get their victims to pay them money or share personal information such as bank account numbers. Many times, people do not realize they are being scammed until it is too late!

Staying protected

While scam callers are bad news indeed, there is some good news. People can protect themselves against scammers by ignoring and hanging up from unknown numbers. A person can also register on the National Do Not Call List or use apps or a cell phone’s feature to block numbers.

Secret passwords

Some families create emergency secret passwords. Families use this secret code or key word to confirm identity. While likely helpful, understand that it’s not foolproof, especially if the password is shared with someone outside of the family. Should you get a call out of the blue about a family member who has purportedly been kidnapped, stay calm as it’s likely a scam. Mainly, the scammer will not be able to supply the secret password. If you suspect you are being scammed, hang up and call the person you believe is in distress. Use a phone number you already have for them to confirm their safety. Never use a phone number supplied to you by a potential scammer or give them money or information. If you believe you or someone you love is really in danger, call 911.

The aftereffects

The background screaming scam seems realistic and convincing, which is why victims fall for it. Many people who are scammed out of money feel embarrassed. Understand that scammers are sly and manipulative and there is no benefit in self-blame. Should you fall for a scam, or be threatened or pressured by a scammer, do not stay silent. Discontinue contact and report it. Scam calls, especially those involving physical threats or loss of funds or personally identifying information, should be promptly reported to the police, your banking institution, and appropriate government agencies. Note that the Federal Trade Commission, FTC, is a good starting point. It is important to take proper steps to stay safe and thwart future scams. Even if you can’t recover your funds, you can break the stigma and help protect other people by coming forward with your experience.