Artificial Intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, popping up in new tools, apps and platforms almost every day. But as AI becomes more sophisticated, it’s also creating new challenges—especially when it comes to telling what’s real online.
The RCMP is sharing what you need to know to stay safe. Investigators note cyber criminals are using AI to develop scams such as:
- Enhanced phishing attacks
- Untraceable content
- Vishing, or voice phishing that mimics the voice of real people
Generative AI
Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that creates brand‑new content based on the data it was trained on. Unlike traditional AI, which analyzes or sorts information, generative AI can produce things like:
- Text
- Images
- Audio
- Videos
- Computer code
Because technology has become so advanced, its creations can look and sound convincingly human. Many social media platforms and websites now offer built‑in AI features to help users generate posts, captions, or images.
Generative AI can be fun—like asking it to write a silly poem—but it also has a darker side. Cybercriminals are increasingly using it to create fake or misleading content designed to trick people.
Risks
One of the biggest concerns is how realistic AI‑generated content can appear. Fake information is easier than ever to produce and spread. AI tools can also be inconsistent or biased, and they sometimes present incorrect details as facts, which can lead individuals and businesses to unknowingly share misinformation.
Cybercriminals are especially quick to use these tools. Generative AI can help them craft convincing phishing messages, impersonate real people, or manipulate victims into giving up sensitive information. With technology becoming more accessible, the risks are growing.
Made using AI
AI‑generated content isn’t always obvious at first glance, but there are key clues to look out for.
Spotting AI‑Generated Images
- Strange or missing details: Objects or body parts—especially hands—may look distorted, misplaced or incomplete
- Unnatural textures: Skin, hair or fabric may appear too smooth, shiny or plastic‑like
- Watermarks or icons: Some AI tools automatically add small logos or text onto images they generate
Spotting AI‑Generated Videos
- Unnatural movement: People might move awkwardly or blink too little
- Inconsistent lighting: Flickering lights, odd shadows or blurry backgrounds may be giveaways
- Irregular audio: Voices may sound flat, robotic or unnaturally steady, with choppy pacing or strange background noise
Spotting AI‑Generated Text
- Robotic tone: AI writing can be flat, overly factual, or emotionless—lacking personal voice
- Outdated information: Some AI tools rely on old data, which can produce inaccurate facts
- Repetition: AI often repeats words or phrases more than a human writer would
Stay aware. Stay safe
As AI continues to evolve, so do the potential threats. Understanding how to recognize AI‑generated content is an important step in protecting yourself and your business. Staying alert and verifying what you see online helps everyone navigate this new digital landscape safely.
The RCMP notes they want to ensure Canadians stay informed, empowered and cyber safe. More details are available online.
Related reading: Nine ways to spot AI content online
