‘We detected unusual activity’: the scam that uses AI to exploit your holiday photos
Summary
New research shows that artificial intelligence (AI) can analyze holiday photos and figure out exactly where they were taken. Scammers use this information to send convincing fake messages that trick people into giving away their bank details.Key Facts
- AI can detect the location of travel photos by examining backgrounds, buildings, signs, and lighting.
- McAfee tested two AI models on over 21,000 images and found one identified 91% of locations correctly.
- Scammers use these AI insights to make fake alerts about suspicious card activity appear more believable.
- Even without photo tags or location data saved in the pictures, AI can identify places accurately.
- Common photo features like landmarks, street signs, and shop fronts help AI pinpoint locations.
- Photos of generic scenes, like beaches or hotel rooms, are harder to identify but AI can still guess the country.
- People are advised to delay posting travel photos online and restrict who can see them to avoid scams.
- Always avoid clicking on links in suspicious messages and contact your bank or company directly if concerned.
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