4 Ways to Spot AI Scams Before You Lose Money This Summer

Jan de Vries · 2026-05-11

AI fraud is exploding. In 2025, cases shot up by 1,210%—way beyond the 195% rise in traditional fraud. Deepfake attempts in the UK nearly doubled, climbing 94% in the same year, second only to France at 96%. More than half of UK adults (51%) now worry about falling for a financial phishing scam. Over one in ten (11%) have already lost money to one. AI-powered scams are driving fraud to record levels nationwide, with over 1,200 incidents every single day. Total losses hit over £629 million (about $800 million) in just six months. Scams typically spike ahead of summer. Fraudsters exploit the surge in online shopping, deal hunting, and travel bookings. Forex broker experts at BrokerChooser warn Brits to stay extra vigilant because AI is now "supercharging" scams. They shared four tactics to help you detect AI scams and avoid losing thousands this summer. ### The Lag Trap Test AI voice and video systems sound convincing in short bursts. But they rely on real-time processing that can create tiny delays, especially when conversations get unpredictable. These subtle delays become more noticeable when the natural flow of conversation is disrupted. Adam Nasli, Head Broker Analyst at BrokerChooser, explains: "Fire off rapid, back-to-back questions that break the natural flow. For example, ask 'Can you confirm that?' followed immediately by 'Where are you calling from right now?' A real person will adapt instantly, often using natural fillers like 'um' or 'uh.' AI systems are more likely to produce slightly delayed answers or respond as if each question exists independently. These small timing cracks are often the first sign you're not speaking to a human." ### Make Them Prove the Room Is Real Deepfake videos can simulate a face well, but they still struggle with real-world spatial awareness and physical interaction. The easiest way to expose this is to ask for small, spontaneous interactions with the environment. Ask for something simple but specific, like "I can't see you properly, can you turn your camera to the left please?" Humans respond instantly and naturally. AI-driven video often breaks under this pressure, with delayed movement, awkward framing, or a background that doesn't shift convincingly with the body. ### Eyes and Lips Don't Lie Faces might look convincing at first glance. But inconsistencies appear when you focus on how the eyes and lips work together. Lips that move too smoothly or don't fully match spoken sounds are a red flag. Pay close attention to words that require fully closed lips, like 'P,' 'B,' or 'M.' AI struggles with these syllables and often shows the mouth slightly open or failing to close at the right moment. Another giveaway is blinking. AI-generated blinks feel off-timing, too consistent, or disconnected from the conversation. Real blinking is more irregular and naturally tied to our speech and thought. ### Can 'They' Get Your Humor? AI is increasingly fluent in language, but it still struggles with intent—especially sarcasm, irony, and emotionally layered humor. This creates a useful real-world stress test in suspicious interactions. For example, you might say, "Oh perfect, I was just waiting for a random bank call to sort out my finances. This feels totally normal." A real human agent will usually acknowledge your concern and clarify legitimacy. AI systems often respond literally or continue the script without recognizing the tone. For instance, "Thank you for confirming. For security purposes, please verify your account details so we can proceed." You can also test absurd compliance humor. Scam attempts often rely on victims not questioning. For instance, "Before we continue, should I also give you my PIN and my favorite color while I'm at it?" A human will likely laugh or push back. AI might just plow ahead with the script. ### What to Do If You Suspect a Scam - Hang up immediately. Do not engage further. - Call the company back using a number from their official website. - Report the incident to Action Fraud or your local authorities. - Never share personal or financial details over an unsolicited call. Stay sharp this summer. These four tactics can help you spot AI scams before they cost you money.