Scammers use fake AI ads across social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn—don’t get caught out!Credit : aileenchik, Shutterstock
Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days and everyone’s talking about it, your mate down the pub is trying to use it, and every other advert online promises to ‘change your life’ with the latest AI tool. It’s a gold rush. But, as always, when something’s shiny and new, there are plenty of chancers waiting in the wings to fleece you.
Cyber crooks have cottoned on to the AI boom in a big way. And if you think you’re too smart to fall for an online scam, think again. Some of these dodgy adverts are so slick, you could swear they’re the real deal. Except, instead of a clever new app, what you might get is a nasty bit of malware, plus an empty bank account for your trouble.
From facebook to fraud: How the scam works
You’re scrolling through Facebook, Instagram, maybe even LinkedIn, because you’re trying to be productive, right? Suddenly, up pops an ad for the latest “AI video creator,” promising Hollywood-level special effects with just one click. There’s a glitzy demo video, a logo you half-recognise (is that Canva? Luma AI? Something else flashy and official?), and a big green button shouting “DOWNLOAD NOW.”
Tempted? Well, that’s exactly what the scammers want.
Behind the scenes, security experts, like the team at Mandiant, part of Google Cloud, say that many of these adverts are fakes, run by professional cybercriminals, often based as far afield as Vietnam. Their game? Fool you into thinking you’re downloading a cutting-edge AI tool, when really, you’re handing them the keys to your digital kingdom.
Once you click, you’re whisked away to a website that looks legit. Maybe it asks for a download, maybe it doesn’t even make you log in. If you hit “yes,” you’ve just installed malware, a sneaky bit of software that steals passwords, credit card details, or anything else you’ve stored on your device. The worst bit? You probably won’t even notice until it’s too late.
Why are AI social media scams so convincing and so dangerous?
It’s all about timing and psychology. AI is hot, everyone wants to be ahead of the curve, and scammers know most people don’t want to miss out. They’ve invested in good graphics, fake testimonials, and even paid “influencers” to vouch for their scams. It all looks so convincing, even the cautious among us have clicked before thinking twice.
And because the Internet never sleeps, if you report one scam, another pops up just minutes later. Social media platforms are trying to clamp down, but they’re playing catch-up.
Losing money is bad enough, but the fallout can be even worse. Malware from these scams can hoover up your saved passwords, break into your email, your PayPal, your bank—pretty much your whole digital life. Sometimes, it lies dormant, quietly monitoring your activity, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. By the time you realise, you could be looking at drained accounts or identity theft.
Spotting fake AI ads: Red flags every social media user should know
Alright, let’s get practical. Here’s what should set your alarm bells ringing:
- No login required: Real AI tools usually ask you to create an account or log in. If you’re offered a “magic download” straight away, don’t touch it.
- Immediate download: Proper sites show you a preview, demo, or explanation. If it’s download-or-nothing, that’s dodgy.
- Weird file formats: AI video tools should deliver .mp4 or .mov files—not .exe or .zip files.
- Fake social profiles: Check the ad’s account. If it’s got five followers, no history, or posts about dodgy diet pills last week, it’s a scam.
- No web presence: Google the tool’s name separately. If you can’t find a proper site or independent reviews, back away.
- Pushy sales tactics: “Only available today!” “Your last chance!” Real tech doesn’t need to strong-arm you.
How to stay safe, without swearing off tech
Don’t worry, you don’t have to give up on AI forever. But a little scepticism goes a long way. Here’s how to stay savvy:
- Install decent antivirus software and keep it updated.
- Never save passwords in browsers if you can avoid it.
- Don’t reuse the same password across different sites. (You know you do. Stop it.)
- Check URLs before clicking. Official tools will be on official domains.
- Report dodgy ads to the platform—don’t just scroll past.
If you do accidentally download something fishy, don’t panic. Disconnect from the Internet, run a full antivirus scan, and change your passwords (starting with your bank and email). If you spot any transactions you don’t recognise, ring your bank right away.
Spotting fake AI Ads: Red flags every social media user should know
Let’s face it: the world of AI is exciting, but it’s still a bit of a WildS West. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Take a moment before you click, your future self (and your bank balance) will thank you.
Stay sharp, stay safe, and don’t let the scammers win.
