AI and Voice Cloning Scams on the Rise, Argentine Police Warn Citizens

How These Scams Work

Carlos Barreto, head of the Chaco Province police cybercrime department in Argentina, has detailed the rising scam tactics exploiting AI technology in the region.

Voice Cloning Fraud

AI technology can now replicate a person's voice with remarkable accuracy. Scammers use this to impersonate family members or acquaintances, creating a sense of urgency by claiming they need money immediately. This modernizes the classic "relative in distress" scam with far more convincing audio.

While formal complaints remain limited in the Chaco region, authorities have detected attempts using distorted voice messages. The first warning sign is when the bank account you're asked to send money to does not belong to the person claiming to contact you. This can be easily verified by looking up the account number (CBU) in a banking app.

WhatsApp Account Hijacking

WhatsApp account theft is the most frequent entry point for fraud. It doesn't require expert hacking—criminals simply need to manipulate a victim into sending them an SMS verification code. Once inside, they access the victim's contact list and send fraudulent messages to many other people.

Other AI-Based Fraud

• Phishing and fake promotions: AI-generated content makes fraudulent messages appear to come from government agencies or legitimate companies
• Illegal loan applications: Malicious apps mirror a device, allowing criminals to steal passwords and biometric data to apply for loans in the victim's name
• AI-generated child abuse material: Faces of minors are superimposed onto adult nude bodies using AI. This constitutes a crime even though the image is artificially generated

Warning Signs and How to Identify Scams

Voice Call Impersonation Fraud

• Even if someone claiming to be a family member requests money transfers, verify the bank account number (CBU) belongs to that person
• Use a banking app to look up account ownership
• Take time to verify independently through another communication method; never rush due to claimed urgency

Suspicious Links and Phishing Sites

• Government agencies and companies never request personal information (passwords, credit card details) via email or phone calls
• Always confirm promotional offers directly on official websites
• Simply clicking a suspicious link is not illegal unless you download something or complete forms

Fraudulent Loans and Investment Schemes

• Investment opportunities using the names of famous athletes or claiming to represent real companies are highly likely to be scams
• If a financial scheme lacks official government approval and regulation, treat it as fraud

Child Abuse Content

• Possession and distribution of child abuse material is illegal, even if AI-generated
• If a minor is asked for money or personal information via online messaging, they should immediately inform an adult

Prevention Measures

Essential Steps for WhatsApp Users

1. Enable two-step verification: Set a 6-digit security code so that access requires both the SMS code and this additional password
2. Never share verification codes: Refuse any request for these codes, regardless of the reason given
3. If your account is compromised:
   • Do not cancel your phone line (you'll need it to recover the account)
   • Immediately post warnings on other social media (Instagram, Facebook, etc.)
   • Report the number as spam directly from the WhatsApp app
   • Contact WhatsApp support to request account suspension
   • Notify your bank's fraud department to stop any transfers in progress

General Precautions

• Never provide personal information in response to unsolicited emails or calls
• Never download apps from unknown sources
• Malicious apps can hijack your entire device and steal sensitive data
• Treat all loan offers and investment pitches from social media contacts as potential scams
• Parents should monitor their children's digital activities more closely

Where to Report

• Chaco Province Police Cybercrime Department: Juan Domingo Perón 1365, 1st Floor (Hours: 8:00 AM–9:30 PM, including siesta hours when attacks peak)
• Your bank's fraud department: Essential to stop fraudulent transfers in progress
• Social media and app platforms: Use their built-in reporting features
• Police Cybercrime Department Social Media: @Departamento Cibercrimen Chaco (regularly posts updates on emerging scams)