Voice Cloning Fraud: What is it, and why is the government warning people against it?

Voice Cloning Fraud: In recent times, artificial intelligence has fast become part of our daily lives, blurring the line between a real and fake experience in such a way that it is impossible to differentiate between the two. Most often, the misuse of new-generation technology is leading to a large number of cybercrimes emanating from every nook and corner of the country. While some of these cybercrimes include offers promising quick money, a lot of cybercriminals are trapping jobseekers on the pretext of providing them with an employment opportunity.
Now, cybercriminals have found a new way to dupe people, and it is through voice cloning.

Voice Cloning Fraud

This is based on the cloning of the voice of one of the victim's acquaintances. The fraudster makes a clone of the voice of the victim's acquaintance and calls the victim.

After exchanging greetings and recalling some common but easily available information about the victim, the fraudster pretends to be in an emergency situation, from which only the victim can drag them out.

While the fraudster's first demand is most likely to be money, they can also ask their victim to share some personal details, like credit card information or account details.

The victim either ends up sending the fraudster money or sharing personal information. By the time the victim realises that it was not their acquaintance, the fraudster has done their job.

What to do to stop Voice Cloning Fraud

Acknowledging the growing problem of voice cloning, the government has quickly turned to action, issuing an advisory to the people against the crime.

While the government suggests the primary remedy is to report the crime to the nearest Thane or cyber cell, it has asked people to take a number of measures if they sense any suspicious activity. 

Advisory for Voice Cloning fraud

The first thing someone can do is not react immediately. However genuine a fraudster sounds, always cross-verify information, like when did you meet them last time or talk over the phone?

If you receive a call from an unknown number or any suspicious one, immediately disconnect it and make a call yourself.

However, if you still fall prey to the fraud and lose your money or accidentally share personal information, call the nearest cyber cell at its number, 1930.