Scammers are now using artificial intelligence to make online fraud look more real than ever, and Google has raised an alert about this growing threat.
With year-end hiring and festive online shopping at their peak, the tech giant has urged internet users to stay cautious as AI-generated scams are becoming harder to spot. AI used to fake job offers and recruiters Google’s Trust Safety team has reported a sharp rise in AI-powered scams targeting job seekers. Fraudsters are using generative AI tools to copy company branding, build fake career websites, and create realistic recruiter profiles. These scams often involve job ads pretending to be from known companies or government agencies. Applicants are asked to share personal details or pay “processing fees” for fake hiring procedures.
Some victims are even sent so-called “interview software” which secretly installs malware or steals data. Google reminded users in its advisory: Legitimate employers never ask for payments or bank details during hiring. Small businesses targeted with ‘review extortion’ It’s not just job seekers; businesses are under attack, too. A growing scam involves posting fake negative reviews to damage a brand’s image and then demanding money to remove them. To help business owners, Google has added a new option to ‘report review extortion’ directly through Google Business Profiles, so action can be taken faster. Fake AI tools malware-filled apps on the rise Scammers are launching websites and apps pretending to be popular AI tools, often promising ‘exclusive access’ for free. But once downloaded, these apps: Even some VPNs claiming to ‘protect privacy’ have been found secretly running malware in the background. How to stay safe online Google advises users to be extra cautious during popular online shopping and hiring periods like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Here’s how you can avoid falling for AI-powered scams: Users urged to stay alert during festive season Google has advised users to be extra careful during busy shopping periods such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when online scams typically rise.
Users are advised to verify website links, avoid unofficial app downloads, and stay cautious of offers or job opportunities that appear unusually attractive.
As cybercriminals upgrade their tactics, Google’s warning serves as a reminder for users and businesses to stay alert, verify before trusting, and adopt stronger online safety habits.
The post How AI is being used to fake jobs and recruiters:Google, in its latest advisory, warns of rising AI-powered scams ahead of the holiday season appeared first on Tri-Cities India.
