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September 21, 2026

Scams Using AI

FineMark Bank
FineMark Bank
Scams Using AI

Recorded: September 4, 2026

Have you ever gotten an email and thought, “That looks odd”? For years, we’ve told people to watch for poor grammar, misspelled words, and other obvious warning signs of a phishing scam. But today, those red flags are becoming much harder to spot. That’s because scammers are now using artificial intelligence to create highly convincing emails, text messages, and online communications. Historically, a phishing email might have been easy to identify because the wording seemed awkward or the message contained obvious mistakes. Today, AI can generate professional-looking messages in seconds. They can be personalized, well-written, and designed to appear as though they came from a trusted company, financial institution, or even someone you know. However, the goal is still the same: to get you to click a link, open an attachment, or provide sensitive information. Many of these messages create a sense of urgency. You may be told that your account has been locked, that suspicious activity has been detected, or that immediate action is required. The scammers are hoping you’ll react before you have time to think. That’s why one of the best defenses against fraud is simply slowing down. If you receive an unexpected email, text, or message asking for personal information, don’t click the link. Instead, contact the company directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate. Remember, just because a message looks professional doesn’t mean it’s trustworthy. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, fraud tactics will evolve as well. Staying informed, remaining cautious, and taking a moment to verify before you act can go a long way toward protecting your personal and financial information. At FineMark Bank & Trust, a division of Commerce Bank, we encourage our clients to stay vigilant and contact us whenever something doesn’t seem right. A quick phone call could help prevent a costly mistake.
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The Old Rules for Spotting Scams No Longer Apply

For years, consumers were told to watch for poor grammar, misspelled words, and suspicious-looking emails as signs of a scam. Today, those warning signs are becoming less reliable.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is helping cybercriminals create phishing emails, text messages, and online communications that look more convincing than ever. Messages can be well-written, personalized, and designed to appear as though they came from a trusted company, financial institution, or even someone you know.

The goal of these scams hasn’t changed. Criminals are still trying to trick you into clicking a link, opening an attachment, or sharing sensitive information. What’s changed is how believable the messages have become.

Many AI-powered phishing attempts rely on urgency. You may receive a message claiming your account has been compromised, a payment has failed, or immediate action is required. Scammers hope you’ll react quickly before taking time to verify the request.

So how can you protect yourself?

A good rule of thumb is to slow down before responding to any unexpected message involving personal or financial information.

Consider these tips:

  • Be cautious of messages that create a sense of urgency.
  • Avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or text messages.
  • Visit websites by typing the address directly into your browser.
  • Verify requests by contacting the company through a trusted phone number or website.
  • Use multi-factor authentication whenever possible.

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, fraud tactics will evolve as well. That’s why it’s important to remember that a professional-looking message isn’t necessarily a legitimate one. When in doubt, pause, verify, and proceed with caution. A few extra minutes could help prevent a costly mistake.

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