Guide · Scams and email

Fake voices and video calls

A few seconds of someone's voice is now enough to copy it. Here's how to protect your business and your family.

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Scammers use computer programs to copy the voice, and sometimes the face, of a boss, coworker or family member. They call with an emergency and ask for money, gift cards, passwords or a quick favor. The voice can sound exactly right.

Warning signs

An urgent request for money, gift cards or a wire, with a reason it can't wait.
"Don't tell anyone" or "I can't talk long".
A call from an unknown number, or a video call where the person won't move or look around.
Small oddities: flat emotion, odd pauses, background that doesn't fit.

What to do

1
Hang up and call back.
Use the number you already have for that person, not the one that called you.
2
Agree on a code word.
A word only your team, or family, knows. Ask for it whenever money or access is involved.
3
Keep the money rules.
Payments and bank changes still need a second person and a call back, no matter who asks.
4
Ask a question only they'd know.
Something not on social media: a recent lunch, an inside joke.
5
Tell IT.
If a fake call targeted your business, others on your team are probably next.