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Scammers Hijack AI for Customer Support Scams
10 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Scammers exploit AI chatbots by injecting fake customer service numbers.
- Techniques like GEO/AEO trick AI into presenting scam numbers as authoritative.
- AI companies are implementing safeguards against AI-driven scam phone numbers.
A new wave of scams is emerging as fraudsters exploit artificial intelligence chatbots. Scammers are manipulating AI systems to display fake customer service phone numbers, preying on users seeking help. These fraudulent numbers appear in responses from AI applications, leading unsuspecting individuals to believe they are contacting legitimate support.
Cybersecurity experts have identified advanced techniques like Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) that trick AI models. These methods involve seeding poisoned content across various websites, including compromised government and university sites, to influence how AI retrieves and ranks information. The goal is to be the single, authoritative answer provided by the AI.
In response to this growing threat, AI companies are beginning to implement protective measures. For example, some chatbots now advise users to rely on official channels for contact information and warn against trusting third-party numbers found online. This systemic issue highlights the vulnerability of AI systems in disseminating misinformation.
