We’ve previously asked you to pick up the phone wherever possible to check that what you’ve been asked to do via email, such as forward money, is a genuine request. Whilst this is still valid, there are also occasions where we’d recommend that you put the phone down.  

Criminals are now cloning voices and can do this using just 3 seconds of audio content! So, be very wary of who you are speaking to on the phone and how long you’re speaking for. If you receive a cold call, we’d strongly recommend that you consider hanging up as quickly as possible. 

Following a recent article by Starling Bank in which they demonstrated a startling clone of actor James Nesbitt’s voice, we’re giving guidance here on how you can do your best to protect yourself, your family, friends and business associates. 

Stay safe from AI voice cloning scams: how safe phrases can protect you 

With AI technology advancing rapidly, it takes just a snippet of recorded audio for artificial intelligence to create a convincing clone of someone’s voice. Scammers can easily exploit this, making it sound as if a friend or family member, or a colleague, is calling in need of urgent help or money. Imagine picking up the phone and hearing a familiar voice, only to be tricked by an imposter. 

To help combat this rising threat, the Home Office has launched the Stop! Think Fraud campaign, and Safe Phrases are powerful tools that you can use in the fight against fraud. 

What is a Safe Phrase? 

A Safe Phrase is a pre-arranged code word or phrase that you share only with your close contacts, making it a simple but effective way to verify if you’re actually talking to someone you trust. If someone calls pretending to be your mother, for example, you can ask them to provide the Safe Phrase. If they can’t, you’ll know something’s wrong. 

Your Safe Phrase should be: 

  • Simple but unique 
  • Easy to remember 
  • Different from any passwords 
  • Only shared in person with trusted friends and family 

For added security, update your Safe Phrase periodically, especially if you suspect it’s been compromised. 

Steps to remember your Safe Phrase 

Keeping a Safe Phrase in mind doesn’t have to be tricky. Here’s a three-step guide: 

  1. Make it short and simple: keep it to a few memorable words. 
  2. If needed, write it down – safely: store it on paper, never digitally. 
  3. Create a mnemonic: using the first letter of each word to form a memorable cue. 

If someone can’t tell you the Safe Phrase, end the call, avoid making payments, and try reaching out on another platform to confirm their identity. 

Protecting yourself from AI voice cloning scams 

Avoiding exposure is key. AI voice cloning requires only a few seconds of audio, so consider where your voice may be accessible: 

  • Check social media privacy: are your accounts public or private? 
  • Limit public voice sharing: avoid sharing voice notes in open forums or public groups. 
  • Stay aware of spoofing: scammers may fake a caller ID to appear as someone you know, adding to the confusion. 

Alarming statistics on AI voice cloning scams 

The numbers tell a worrying story. 2.9 million confirmed cases of fraud were reported in the UK in 2022, and 28% of Brits believe they’ve been targeted by an AI voice cloning scam within the past year alone. It’s essential to stay vigilant and proactive to protect yourself. 

Need help? 

Not sure how you can protect yourself and your business from cybercrime? Net Primates are here to help. We have prioritised cyber security for a number of years, understanding that without it we are all at risk. 

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