Cyber scams have targeted 9 in 10 Americans as AI fuels fraud

A new report from Consumer Reports reveals that nine out of ten Americans have been targeted by a digital scam or cyberattack. The research, conducted in March and April, polled nearly 5,000 U.S. adults. AI technology is making it easier and cheaper for scammers to carry out personalized attacks, according to experts. AI allows criminals to quickly synthesize information, creating convincing traps that would have previously been too costly or labor-intensive to execute.

This technology is driving more data breaches as well, giving scammers access to personal data that they then use to craft more convincing phishing messages. Despite leading AI labs warning about potential destructive capabilities, experts believe such near-term scenarios are unlikely. However, AI has already changed the nature of digital fraud, making consumers' pocketbooks more vulnerable than ever before.

Consumer Reports president and CEO Phil Radford stated that the growing ubiquity of cyberattacks is a concern for even tech-savvy individuals, who must upgrade their online defenses. Personal precautions, such as pausing for a few seconds before clicking on links, are necessary but not sufficient, as closing those gaps requires industry, government, and philanthropy collaboration.