Better Business Bureau warns of increased phishing scams with new AI programs 

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued a warning to consumers about the potential increase in phishing scams due to new artificial intelligence (AI) programs, such as ChatGPT.  

BBB Regional Director Whitney Quick advised people not to believe everything they see online and to use a healthy amount of skepticism when contacted by someone they cannot verify the identity of.  

While phishing scams are not new, the use of AI technology can make it harder for consumers to spot that they are being scammed.  

Quick warned that scammers can create natural-sounding phishing messages that may contain odd phrasing or incorrect information. 

However, she also noted that consumers can sometimes spot mistakes and encouraged people not to click on any links or attachments if they receive a message that seems to be from an official source.  

Instead, Quick advised verifying the sender and scrutinizing the wording of the message.  

 The BBB hopes that by staying alert and adding these steps to their online safety routine, consumers can avoid falling victim to scams that could lead to viruses or fraudulent websites.  

Quick also cautioned against believing everything seen online, particularly messages promising great deals or urging immediate action, as they should be taken with a grain of salt.  

If you believe you may be a victim to an A.I phishing scams you are encouraged to visit Find and Report a Scam | Better Business Bureau (bbb.org)