Fake AI Tool Scams
Fraudulent AI tools that steal data, install malware, or charge for non-existent services.
What is this scam?
Scammers create fake AI tools and apps that promise incredible capabilitiesāimage generators, chatbots, productivity toolsābut actually:
- Install malware or spyware on your device
- Steal login credentials and personal data
- Charge subscription fees for non-functional services
- Harvest your uploaded content (photos, documents, data)
- Redirect you to phishing sites
These fake tools often appear in app stores, ads, or as "free trials" of popular AI services like ChatGPT, Midjourney, or DALL-E.
šHow This Scam Works
- Fake tool creation: Scammers build lookalike apps or websites mimicking legitimate AI services
- Distribution: Promoted via ads, social media, app stores, or email campaigns
- Download/signup: Victim installs app or creates account, providing email and payment info
- Data harvesting: Tool collects uploaded files, photos, credentials, or personal information
- Malware deployment: Some tools install keyloggers, ransomware, or spyware
- Subscription trap: Charges begin immediately, often difficult to cancel
- Service failure: Tool doesn't work as advertised, or disappears entirely
š©Red Flags to Watch For
- ā¢App or website closely mimics a well-known AI service but has slight name variations
- ā¢Promises free access to premium AI tools that normally require payment
- ā¢Asks for excessive permissions (camera, contacts, files) for no clear reason
- ā¢Requires payment information for a "free trial" with no clear cancellation process
- ā¢Poor reviews or no reviews at all in app stores
- ā¢Website domain looks suspicious (e.g., "chatgpt-free.xyz" instead of "openai.com")
- ā¢Unrealistic capabilities ("Turn any photo into a video!" "Read minds with AI!")
- ā¢No clear company information or contact details
- ā¢Spelling errors or poor grammar on website/app
- ā¢Requests access to your Google/Facebook account for "easy login"
š”ļøHow to Protect Yourself
- 1Download AI tools only from official sources (company website, verified app stores)
- 2Check app developer name carefully - scammers use similar-sounding names
- 3Read recent reviews before installing, watch for complaints about charges or malware
- 4Never provide payment info for tools claiming to be 'free'
- 5Review app permissions before installing - deny unnecessary access
- 6Use a password manager and unique passwords for each service
- 7Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts
- 8Search for '[tool name] + scam' before signing up
- 9Be skeptical of AI tools advertised via social media ads
- 10When in doubt, go directly to the official website of established AI companies
šIf You've Been Targeted
- Stop all communication with scammer
- Report to relevant authorities
- Secure your accounts (change passwords)
- Monitor for identity theft
- Warn others in your network
šReport & Get Help
Report fraud and get support through these official resources in your country:
š¬š§United Kingdom
- Action Fraud
UK fraud reporting
Learn More
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