New AI-based voice fraud method uncovered by INCIBE in Spain

Finding it strange, she called her husband on his usual number, who confirmed he had not called her.

Possible AI voice replication

After discussing the incident, they suspected the voice could have been generated using artificial intelligence. There were no public videos of her husband from which the voice could have been taken, making this less likely. However, he had received several strange calls previously, suggesting the possibility that his voice was recorded during one of those calls.

INCIBE’s guidance

INCIBE explained that AI tools can replicate a voice using just a few seconds of recording. It’s possible the cybercriminals used recordings from previous suspicious calls to create the fake message. They have received similar reports from other users who heard a familiar voice asking them to send a message to a certain number.

Reactive measures

INCIBE advised the woman to take the following steps:

1. Warn contacts about the incident to alert them of similar calls.
2. Block the number that made the suspicious call.
3. Report the fraudulent number to the Policia Nacional or the Guardia Civil.
4. Practice egosurfing and conduct an internet search using Google Dorks for personal information and request its removal if found.

Preventive Measures

To prevent such incidents, INCIBE recommended:

1. Verify suspicious calls by contacting the supposed caller through known numbers.
2. Never share personal or banking information.
3. Avoid following instructions to click links or download apps.
4. Agree on a code word with family and friends to confirm identities during suspicious communications.

Continued Support

For any further concerns, INCIBE reminded users that the Cybersecurity Help Line is available every day from 8.00 am to 11.00 pm.

• Phone – 017
• WhatsApp – 900 116 117
• Telegram – @INCIBE017

Also read: “Child in distress” scam gang dismantled