Friend on the Screen (AI)

What is Friend on Screen?

Artificial intelligence is making it easier than ever to create realistic images, voices and conversations. Attackers can use these technologies to imitate someone you know or create an entirely fictional person who appears friendly and trustworthy. They may interact with victims through social media, messaging platforms or video calls, gradually building a relationship before asking for personal information, money or access to accounts.

The danger is not limited to text messages. AI-generated voices and realistic video can make a fake identity appear surprisingly authentic. An attacker might use information collected from social media to make the conversation feel personal, mentioning your interests, friends or daily activities. Over time, the victim may become less suspicious because the person on the screen feels familiar and trustworthy.

The best defence is to slow down and verify. Be cautious when an online contact suddenly asks for money, passwords, verification codes or other sensitive information. If someone claims to be a friend or family member and the situation feels unusual, contact them through another trusted channel to confirm their identity. Avoid sharing too much personal information publicly, and remember that seeing or hearing someone online is no longer absolute proof of who they are.