If you thought online scams were just a holiday headache, think again. This past week, the world saw a massive crackdown in Myanmar, where nearly 1,600 people were arrested in just five days at the notorious Shwe Kokko scam compound. Authorities seized thousands of computers, mobile phones, and even Starlink satellite receivers. These scam centers, often run by militia groups, have been forcing people into brutal conditions, making them send thousands of scam messages every day. Survivors have reported torture, impossible quotas, and threats of organ harvesting. And here’s the kicker—these scams are now supercharged by AI, making the messages and websites look incredibly real. Romance scams, fake investment platforms, and phishing emails are all getting a high-tech upgrade, and it’s not just happening overseas.

Back here in the States, the National Retail Federation says a record 187 million people are expected to shop online this Thanksgiving weekend. That’s a lot of targets for scammers. Virginia Tech’s Murat Kantarcioglu warns that scam emails are no longer full of spelling mistakes. Thanks to AI, they’re more convincing than ever, especially for seniors. His advice? Don’t trust emails or texts that look like they’re from retailers. Go directly to the website yourself. Don’t click on links. And if someone urgently asks for money or personal info, hang up and verify the source.

Just last week, a Syracuse police officer was arrested for fraud after using a Lowe’s credit card and then filing a false fraud report to get a refund. It’s a reminder that scammers can be anyone, even people in positions of trust.

If you get a suspicious call or message, don’t panic. Check the number, search for it, and report it. Use strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and don’t overshare on social media. Scammers are using your data to craft personalized attacks, so limit what you put out there. And if you spot a suspicious payment, contact your card provider right away.

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI