The FBI has issued a serious warning about a growing deepfake scam campaign aimed at impersonating senior U.S. officials using AI-generated voice and text messages. The scheme specifically targets former federal and state government officials, aiming to deceive victims through highly convincing audio and SMS tactics.
According to the alert released on Thursday, cybercriminals are blending smishing (text message phishing) with vishing (voice phishing using AI-generated audio) to trick victims into thinking they’re communicating with trusted high-profile figures or even family members. These deceptive messages often contain malicious links designed to redirect victims to external platforms—where malware can be installed or login credentials stolen.
What makes this scam more dangerous is how threat actors exploit any compromised accounts or contact details to further infiltrate government networks or manipulate a victim’s wider circle. The FBI warns that once attackers gain access to a victim’s email or social media accounts, they can impersonate other contacts to extract sensitive information or funds.
To avoid falling victim, the FBI urges individuals to treat any unsolicited message claiming to be from a senior U.S. official with suspicion. Just because a message sounds familiar doesn’t make it real—especially when AI can now mimic voices and phrasing with eerie precision.
Some smishing attempts pose as family or friends in need, while others clone public figures’ voices in voice messages. In both cases, the goal is to lower the target’s guard and prompt quick action—usually by clicking on links or providing personal details.
How to protect yourself from deepfake scams:
- Double-check identities: Don’t trust caller ID or text signatures. Instead, verify numbers, email addresses, and online profiles independently.
- Watch for subtle clues: Look for awkward wording, strange tone shifts, or minor visual glitches that could indicate manipulated audio or media.
- Avoid sharing sensitive info: Never give out personal data, banking info, or account credentials to someone you haven’t met in person.
- Enable multi-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to all online accounts.
- Never click unknown links or open suspicious attachments: Even messages that appear familiar could be malicious.
- Create a family code word: Use a secret phrase among trusted contacts to verify each other’s identity during emergencies or suspicious calls.
The FBI continues to monitor this evolving threat and urges anyone who receives a suspicious message to report it immediately to federal or local law enforcement.
As deepfake technology grows more accessible, impersonation scams will only get more convincing. Staying alert, verifying sources, and trusting your instincts remain your best defense.
