Staying safe in the digital age

Unmasking artificial intelligence fraud and cybercrime

In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) fraud and cybercrime are evolving at an unprecedented pace. It is important to try and stay ahead of the curve and protect ourselves against potential dangers.

We use the internet for so many things – chatting with friends, playing games, even schoolwork. But some people use the internet to trick others and steal personal information or money. Learning more about the risks can help keep you safe.

Why it matters

AI has been associated with a wide range of cybercrimes, including:

  • phishing scams
  • cloned audio imposter scams
  • live voice identity theft
  • deepfake videos
  • fake positive reviews

Free advice

Residents are encouraged to join our free webinar on Tuesday 16 July at 10am. Led by Buckinghamshire and Surrey Trading Standards experts, it aims to equip attendees with tools and knowledge to safely navigate the digital world.

The webinar will cover how to spot and stop a scam, how to report scams, and how you can protect yourself and others against AI fraud and cybercrime. You will also hear real- life stories about people who have been defrauded. In addition, the webinar will feature a guest speaker from Surrey Police.

Please note that this event will be signed in British Sign Language and have subtitles.

Received a suspicious message?

Help track and stop cyber criminals. Send suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk, texts to 7726, and report scam websites.

To report a fraud or scam

Being scammed can be a harrowing experience with long-lasting impact. However, many scams unfortunately go unreported.

If you, or someone you know, needs advice or wants to report a fraud, please contact the Citizens Advice consumer service online or via 0808 223 1133. The helpline takes all enquiries on behalf of Trading Standards across England and Wales. They will pass your report to the relevant team.

Alternatively, if you have been a victim of fraud and lost money, please contact Action Fraud online or via 0300 123 2040.

For more information on how to avoid scams, visit the Trading Standards webpage. Here, you can sign up to their regular newsletter.

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