New Scams to Look out for in 2025

As technology evolves, scams evolve as well, and there are some new tricks scammers are employing to fool unsuspecting people into giving up valuable information. So, it’s important to stay up-to-date on all these new scam tactics. Here are some of the new scams to look out for in 2025. 

Deepfake Scams

Deepfakes use artificial intelligence to create videos or images meant to imitate a real or nonexistent person, making them say or do something they never did. Unfortunately, this has been very effective for scammers in confidence schemes or misinformation campaigns.

Scammers can use deepfakes to manipulate audio or video and pretend to be a financial representative or institution. They may request a wire transfer or loan application. A financial institution will never ask for money over the phone, so look out for these types of requests.

While it can often be difficult to spot a deepfake, there are a few ways to detect it. First, look for the source of the images or videos. Then, see if you can spot inconsistencies. Sometimes, the deepfakes can have odd facial expressions and body movements or unrealistic hair or skin. You can also look for deepfake detection software to help you spot these inconsistencies.

AI-Powered Phishing Attacks

AI has helped other areas in increasing productivity or ideation, but it has also helped enhance phishing techniques.

For example, scammers have been using AI chatbots like ChatGPT to create personalized text messages and emails to send to people that mimic a person or institution’s brand and voice. AI helps scammers research their potential targets and deliver convincing messages.

To protect yourself against phishing attempts, never click or tap on any unsolicited links or attachments you receive without verifying they’re legitimate. Also, don’t give out any important information as real institutions will not ask for login information or social security numbers.

Brushing Scams

A new type of scam that has risen in recent years is called “brushing.” Brushing often involves the scammer sending an unsolicited package to a target.

These packages will not have a return address but will be addressed to you and your name may appear on fabricated reviews for the product on the package. The package will then contain a QR code in an attempt to trick you into scanning it and sharing your personal information.

If you receive a suspicious package you didn’t order, there are a few things you should do. First, you can always throw away the package. But after that, change your passwords on frequently-used sites, as scammers may have used these to get your information. Lastly, keep an eye on your bank statements for any fraudulent activity. If you see anything out of the ordinary, contact your financial institution to get it fixed.

Stay Safe

Scammers are getting cleverer every day, so it’s important to stay aware of these new scams. Take extra steps to safeguard your vital data. Use complicated passwords, multi-factor authentication, and report any suspicious communications you receive. And if possible, do your best to spread the word and ensure no one else falls victim.