When AI Scams Use Your Name: A Strange New Flattery

Jan de Vries · 2026-06-02

It starts with a strange feeling. You check your email or social media, and there it is — a message that uses your name, your tone, maybe even a reference to something you wrote or said. It feels personal, almost flattering. But then you realize: it's not real. It's an AI-generated scam, crafted to fool you by pretending to be someone you trust. This is the new reality of digital deception. Author RR Haywood recently explored how these tactics are becoming more sophisticated, more personal, and harder to spot. And if you're a professional working in the startup world — especially one following EU Inc news or the EU Inc proposal — you need to pay attention. ### Why AI Scams Feel So Personal AI tools have gotten incredibly good at mimicking human behavior. They can analyze your public posts, your writing style, and even your professional network. Then they generate messages that sound just like you or someone you know. Here's what makes them dangerous: - They use your real name and details pulled from public sources. - They mimic the tone and style of a trusted colleague or friend. - They often reference recent events or projects you're involved with. - They feel urgent or flattering, making you more likely to act without thinking. This isn't just annoying. For startup founders and investors, it can lead to serious financial loss. Imagine receiving a message from what looks like a co-founder or a venture partner, asking you to wire funds or share sensitive data. The scam feels real because it is built from real information. ### How to Protect Yourself and Your Startup The good news is that you can defend against these attacks. It just takes a little awareness and a few new habits. **Verify before you trust.** If a message feels off, even slightly, pause. Pick up the phone and call the person directly. Use a number you already know, not one from the message. **Watch for urgency.** Scammers love to create a sense of panic or excitement. "Act now or you'll miss out" is a red flag. Legitimate opportunities rarely require instant action. **Check the details.** Look for small mistakes. AI-generated text often has subtle errors — odd phrasing, slightly wrong facts, or a tone that doesn't quite match. Trust your gut. **Use multi-factor authentication.** This adds an extra layer of security. Even if someone gets your password, they can't access your accounts without the second factor. **Educate your team.** Make sure everyone in your company knows about these scams. Run a quick training session. Share examples. The more people know, the harder it is for scammers to succeed. ### The Bigger Picture for EU Startups For those following EU Inc news and the EU Inc proposal, this issue is especially relevant. The proposal aims to make it easier for startups to incorporate and operate across Europe. But as the ecosystem grows, so does the target on its back. Scammers are drawn to fast-moving, high-value environments. Startups often have less security infrastructure than large corporations. Founders are busy, trusting, and focused on growth — all qualities that make them vulnerable. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect not just your own business, but the entire community. When one startup falls for a scam, it damages trust in the whole system. ### Final Thoughts It's strange to have your name used in a scam. It feels violating, almost creepy. But it's also a sign of the times. AI is changing everything, including how we're deceived. The key is to stay human. Trust your instincts. Double-check before you act. And remember: if something feels too personal or too urgent, it probably is. Stay safe out there. And don't let the flattery fool you.