Imposter-based scams caused nearly $3 billion in losses in just one year, affecting both individuals and organizations. With phone calls ranking as one of the most common methods of fraud, a familiar voice is no longer proof of trust.
Attackers pull audio from short clips shared on social media, voicemail greetings, or videos, then use AI to convincingly impersonate a boss, coworker, or vendor.
In this post, I explain what’s happening, why instinct is no longer enough, and the simple steps teams can take to protect their business.
Why AI Voice Scams Are So Effective
Traditional scams were easy to spot through bad grammar, suspicious emails, or obvious red flags. AI-powered scams feel different.
They sound real.
A call might come in saying:
- “I’m in a meeting, I need this handled right now.”
- “Our email is down, can you help me quickly?”
- “This is urgent, don’t loop anyone else in.”
The voice sounds familiar. The urgency feels real. That combination is what makes these scams so dangerous.
What Scammers Are Trying to Get
Most voice and phone scams aim to steal PII (Personally Identifiable Information) or money.
PII includes:
- Login credentials
- Email access
- Financial details
- Client information
- Internal company data
Once attackers get this information, it can lead to email compromises, fraudulent payments, or wider cybersecurity incidents that require IT support and recovery.
What NOT to Do If You Get a Suspicious Call
These scams succeed because they pressure people into acting fast.
If something feels urgent or unusual, do not:
- Share passwords or verification codes by phone
- Provide sensitive business or client information
- Act immediately without checking
- Assume the voice means the caller is legitimate
Even if the caller sounds exactly like someone you know.
What TO Do Instead (Simple, Human Steps)
You do not need technical knowledge to stop these scams. You need process.
If you receive a suspicious call:
- Hang up
- Call the person back using a phone number you already trust
- Verify the request independently (email, chat, or another colleague)
- Never rely on the incoming call alone
One Smart Extra-Step: Use a Secret Phrase
For leadership teams and finance roles, create a simple internal verification phrase.
If a call claims to be urgent and sensitive, ask for that phrase.
If they cannot provide it, the call ends.
This single step stops most AI voice scams immediately.
Why Businesses Need More Than Awareness
Education is critical, but awareness alone is not enough.
Businesses also need:
- Clear security policies
- Employee training
- Email and endpoint protection
- A trusted IT services partner to help prevent, detect, and respond to threats
This is why working with a managed IT support provider matters.
As a proactive MSP, PROTELI helps organizations:
- Reduce the risk of social engineering attacks
- Protect email and communication systems
- Train employees on real-world threats
- Respond quickly when something suspicious happens
For our clients across New York and other states it means faster response times and clear accountability when incidents occur.
Final Thought
AI-powered scams are not a future problem. They are happening now, and they target human trust, not just technology.
The good news is that simple habits, clear processes, and the right cybersecurity partner can dramatically reduce risk.
to review your current security setup, train your team, and strengthen your defenses against modern cyber threats.
Or learn more about PROTELI services.
Education comes first. Protection comes next.
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