Can AI save us from the losing war with scammers? Perhaps

GAMIFYING to win is a trait that is deeply embedded within all of us. A young child knows exactly how to socially manipulate the parents to get that extra scoop of ice-cream, or more time on their devices. Thankfully, most learn, and apply, boundaries of right and wrong in their day-to-day engagements while concurrently trying to learn the subtle signs of when they are themselves subject to another’s nudge. The uncomfortable reality is that we are all subject to being played, scammed and manipulated – from giving a child more than they should have, paying more than is necessary, to being cheated of one’s life savings.

The relentless technological advancement happening around us is not limited to “the good guys”. The world of scamming has tremendously evolved with the progress and adoption of readily accessible technology. From the so-called Nigerian scams of “I am the heir to a diamond mine and need your help for only $250” to highly sophisticated and personally crafted messages that are borderline indistinguishable from their authentic equivalent. These are designed to manipulate our most basic instincts to drive towards what is then retrospectively seen as an irrational action. It is important for us to note that unlike “us”, scammers are not having roundtable discussions on governance and compliance in artificial intelligence (AI) or technology at large, or whether innovation should be balanced with control.

Ineffective scam prevention measures

Today, the measures for scam prevention fall largely into two areas. First, the customer end, through education, warnings-alerts, device-level limitations and various other friction points. Customer education is a critically important facet and must have dedicated resources and effort. The first truth we need to embrace is that no matter how informed, educated or careful a person is, they will remain subject to being manipulated. Scammers are artists and we are their canvas.