Quick Guides
When a familiar voice may not be real
Respond calmly to possible AI impersonation without having to become a deepfake expert.
Artificial intelligence can be used to imitate a person’s voice or create misleading images and video. A familiar voice can feel convincing. Instead of trying to prove whether something is AI-generated, check the person and the request through a separate channel.
Key warning signs
- An unexpected emergency call asks for urgent money or secrecy.
- A familiar voice makes an unusual request and will not let you call back.
- A video or audio clip is offered as the only proof that a person or offer is genuine.
- You are discouraged from contacting another family member, colleague, or trusted organization.
What to do
Give yourself a moment
You do not need a technical explanation to pause. Say, ‘I’m going to check and call back.’
Reach the person separately
Call the number you already have for them. If they do not answer, try a trusted family member or colleague who can help confirm the situation.
Make a plan together
Discuss in advance how your household will check unusual requests for money. Keep trusted contact details somewhere easy to find.
What not to do
- Do not rely only on whether a voice sounds natural or a video looks convincing.
- Do not send money while an unverified caller keeps you on the line.
- Do not shame someone for believing a familiar voice. Focus on the next safe action.
When to get help
If someone appears to be in immediate danger, contact local emergency services directly. If money was sent, contact the payment provider through its official channel. If a young person receives a threatening request, help them involve a trusted adult without fear of punishment.
For U.S. scam reporting, visit ReportFraud.ftc.gov. For a personal identity-theft recovery plan, use IdentityTheft.gov. Outside the U.S., contact your local consumer-protection agency.
Try it together
You hear what sounds like a loved one asking for emergency money. Do you have to identify an AI voice before you can pause?
A safer next step
No. You can end the call and check using a familiar number. The same verification step is useful whether the impersonation uses AI or not.
Sources & further reading
These public guidance sources informed this resource. Their inclusion does not imply endorsement of the Foundation.
ZoraSafe Foundation · https://www.zorasafefoundation.org/education/ai-impersonation