AI supercharged scammers. Here's how to protect yourself

The United States has always been full of scammers, from snake oil salesmen promising miracle cures, to stockbrokers selling Ponzi schemes.   But now, swindlers and thieves have a new tool in their toolbox: AI.  The FBI says cybercrimes involving AI stole nearly a billion dollars from 22,000 Americans last year. And the situation is only getting worse.  On today's episode, AI has turbocharged the scam industry. So, how can we protect ourselves?  GUESTS: Andrea Alegrett, an assistant the Washington Attorney General's office. Yuki Ishizuka, Technology Policy Manager, Washington Attorney General's office.  Do you have a story idea for us? Give us a call at (206) 221-7158 and leave a voicemail. You can also email us at booming@kuow.org. Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/boomingnotes.Booming is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Carol Smith. Our producers are Lucy Soucek and Alec Cowan. Our hosts are Joshua McNichols and Monica Nickelsburg.Support the show: https://kuow.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.