For years, we’ve told people to “trust your instincts” when something feels off. That advice used to work.
Today, it’s no longer enough.
Scams haven’t disappeared — they’ve evolved. And one of the most significant changes we’re seeing right now is the use of artificial intelligence to make scams look and sound incredibly real.
In my work with seniors and their families here in Santa Barbara, I’m hearing more stories that begin the same way:
- “It sounded exactly like them.”
- “The email looked completely legitimate.”
- “I didn’t think twice.”
That’s because today’s scams are no longer easy to recognize.
Artificial intelligence has removed many of the warning signs we used to rely on. Messages are now polished, personal, and often urgent. There are fewer spelling errors, fewer awkward phrases, and fewer obvious red flags. In some cases, scammers can even replicate a loved one’s voice or create highly believable scenarios that feel immediate and emotional.
Many familiar scams still exist — but they’ve been upgraded.
One of the most concerning is voice cloning. A scammer may call, sounding like a grandchild or family member in distress, asking for immediate help and urging secrecy.
Emails and text messages have also become more convincing. Messages that once looked suspicious now appear professional and credible, often posing as your bank, Medicare or a familiar company asking you to click a link or confirm personal information.
We are also seeing more impersonation using fake online profiles and even video, making interactions feel more authentic than ever before.
What makes these scams so effective isn’t just the technology — it’s the psychology behind them. They create urgency, tap into trust, and discourage people from pausing or checking with someone else. For those who are helpful, responsive, and used to taking care of others, that combination can be especially persuasive.
In the past, the advice was simple: If it looks suspicious, don’t trust it.
Today, the better advice is this: Even if it looks real, verify it.
Protecting yourself doesn’t require technical expertise — just a simple, consistent approach. Pause before responding. Don’t act on urgency alone. Verify using a separate, trusted contact method.
If you receive a call from a “family member,” hang up and call them back using a number you already have. If you receive a message from your bank, contact them directly via their official website or phone number.
You are always allowed to slow things down.
Another important step is creating a small circle of trusted contacts — people you can call before responding to anything that feels even slightly off. That extra layer of support can prevent costly mistakes and provide peace of mind.
Scams are no longer just an individual issue — they are a community issue. The more we talk about them, the less effective they become. Sharing what you learn with a friend, neighbor or family member may be the very thing that protects them.
Technology will continue to evolve, and unfortunately, so will scams. But one thing remains constant: You don’t have to respond immediately, and you don’t have to handle it alone.
Slowing down, verifying, and having a trusted system in place will protect you every time.
Terri Dimond is a Certified Senior Housing Professional with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties and founder of the “Empowerment Through Education” seminar series in Santa Barbara. Her upcoming seminar on scams and fraud prevention will take place on April 14. Learn more at www.TerriDimond.com.