# Google warns users of 5 emerging scams: How AI, crypto, and major events are targeting users | Tech News (HT Tech)

> Online scams are becoming more sophisticated, with AI and new tactics. Google warns users about emerging threats and provides essential tips for staying safe online. Here’s everything you need to know about.

# Google warns users of 5 emerging scams: How AI, crypto, and major events are targeting users

## Online scams are becoming more sophisticated, with AI and new tactics. Google warns users about emerging threats and provides essential tips for staying safe online. Here’s everything you need to know about.

Nov 18 2024, 12:05 IST

![Follow on Facebook](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/follow-us-facebook.png)

![Follow on Facebook](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/follow-us-facebook-hover.png)

![Share](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/Share.png)

![Share](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/Shareclicked.png)

![Share on WhatsApp](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/whatsapp.png)

![Share on WhatsApp](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/whatsapp-hover.png)

![Share on Twitter](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/twitter.png)

![Share on Twitter](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/twitter-hover.png)

![Share on Facebook](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/facebook.png)

![Share on Facebook](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/facebook-hover.png)

![Bookmark](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/Bookmark.png)

![Bookmarked](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/Bookmarked.png)

![online scams](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/img/2024/11/18/1600x900/Google_warns_users_of_5_emerging_scams_1731911680116_1731911680285.jpg)

![icon](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/imageviewall.png)

Google warns users about five rising online scams and shares tips to stay safe from these frauds. (Pexels)

![Author Photo](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/HTTech-new-circle-logo.png)

### By MD IJAJ KHAN

Online scams are evolving at a rapid pace, posing fresh challenges for internet users. Google’s Vice President for Trust and Safety recently shared critical insights about rising cyber threats on the company’s safety and security news platform. These scams, often powered by advanced technologies like AI and cloaking methods, are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Here’s what you need to know about the latest online threats and how to safeguard yourself.

## Five Online Scams to Watch

## 1. Public Figure Deepfakes

Scammers are now using AIdriven deepfake technology to create highly convincing impersonations of well-known individuals. These scams often promote fake investments, giveaways, or malicious apps, combining traditional fraud methods with advanced technology. Google warns that these campaigns exploit multiple platforms simultaneously, increasing their effectiveness.

Also read: Narayana Murthy’s son left job at ₹749000 crore Infosys, inspired by Sudha Murty, he is now working as…

Also read

click here.

## 2. Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud

Cryptocurrency remains a prime target for scammers. Many fraudulent schemes promise enormous returns, often falsely endorsed by celebrities. According to Google, such scams frequently originate from organised crime groups operating in countries far from their victims.

## 3. Landing Page Cloaking

To bypass detection systems, scammers use cloaking techniques to display safe content to moderators while directing users to harmful websites. This tactic helps them evade security filters and target unsuspecting users directly. Tip: Always compare the displayed URL with the actual landing page to ensure authenticity.

Also read: Amazon job: Woman loses ₹1.94 lakh in a new scam- What is it and how it works

## 4. Cloning Apps and Websites

Cloning scams involve the creation of counterfeit apps and websites that mimic genuine brands. These fake platforms are designed to steal personal data, install malware, or trick users into making fraudulent purchases. A common example is fake customer support portals that deceive users into sharing sensitive details or paying for nonexistent services.

## 5. Exploiting Major Events

Scammers exploit high profile events like elections, natural disasters, or sports tournaments to launch timely frauds. For instance, the April solar eclipse saw scams promoting fake products falsely linked to NASA. Similarly, fraudsters have used fake charities to exploit disasters, targeting individuals looking to donate.

Also read: AQI in Delhi today: How to check on your iPhone or Android phone, step-by-step guide

## Cybersecurity Tips to Staying Safe Online

- Spot Deepfakes: Look for unnatural expressions or inconsistencies in media featuring public figures.

- Scrutinise Offers: Be wary of guaranteed high returns in investment schemes. If it feels too good to be true, it likely is.

- Verify URLs: Doublecheck website addresses for subtle errors that might indicate fraudulent activity.

- Enable Protection Features: Use Chrome’s Enhanced Protection and Google’s “About this result” tool for additional security.

- Donate Wisely: Rely on official or verified platforms when contributing to causes during major events.

By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to the emerging online scams.

Catch all the Latest Tech News, Mobile News, Laptop News, Gaming news, Wearables News , How To News, also keep up with us on Whatsapp channel,Twitter, Facebook, Google News, and Instagram. For our latest videos, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

18 Nov, 12:05 IST

online scam

google

![HT Tech Awards](https://tech.hindustantimes.com/ht-tech-power-list-awards-2026/httech-awards-banner-new.webp)

### Related Stories

29 Sept 2026

71,731,911,138,156

NEXT ARTICLE BEGINS

![View all](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/view-all-icon.png)

## Tips & Tricks

![Ghibli-style art](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/img/2025/03/28/414x233/ChatGPT_Ghibli_style_images_1743161814450_1743161814596.jpg)

### How to turn your photos into Ghibli-style art with ChatGPT for free: Step-by-step guide

![How to create an invitation using iPhone’s new Apple Invites app- Step-by-step guide](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/img/2025/02/14/414x233/invites_1738728829564_1739543695649.png)

### How to create an invitation using iPhone’s new Apple Invites app- Step-by-step guide

![Apple TV app arrives on Android phones and tablets: What you get and how to install it](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/img/2025/02/13/414x233/unnamed_1739426557335_1739426567634.jpg)

### Apple TV app arrives on Android phones and tablets: What you get and how to install it

![Vodafone Idea OTT plans](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Vodafone Idea users can now stream 17 OTT apps with one subscription: Here's how

![Android data transfer methods](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### How to transfer data from one Android to another using Google backup, USB-C cable, and more

## Editor’s Pick

![iPhone 16e launched with A18 chip, Apple AI—bringing flagship power on a budget: Check specs, price](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### iPhone 16e launched in India: All details about the new budget mobile from Apple

![DeepSeek was founded in China with only a fraction of the budget of the top AI companies in the US.](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### DeepSeek AI: How it works, who’s behind it, how it’s different from ChatGPT, and its big US market impact explained

![iPhone 17 Air likely to get this feature that iPhone 17 Pro models may miss out on](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### iPhone 17 Air likely to get this feature that iPhone 17 Pro models may miss out on

![Google Whisk AI explained: How remixing works, availability, and how it differs from Gemini](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Google Whisk AI explained: How remixing works, availability, and how it differs from Gemini

![iOS 18.4 beta arriving soon: Know why it is the biggest iPhone update](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### iOS 18.4 beta arriving soon: Know why it is the biggest iPhone update

## Trending Stories

![Airtel 5G SIM card will now be delivered in 10 minutes with Blinkit- How to order](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Airtel 5G SIM card will now be delivered in 10 minutes with Blinkit- How to order

![Infinix Note 50s 5G+](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Infinix Note 50s 5G+ set to launch in India with 64MP camera and MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC

![Xiaomi X Pro QLED Series sale starts in India: Check price, availability, and more](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Xiaomi X Pro QLED Series sale starts in India: Check price, availability, and more

![Apple Intelligence AI training](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Apple plans to train AI using your on-device data without accessing personal content or emails: Report

![CMF Buds 2](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### CMF Buds 2 key features and price revealed ahead of April 28 launch: Details inside

keep up with tech

![Facebook](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/tech-facebook.png)

![Twitter](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/tech-twitter.png)

![WhatsApp](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/tech-whatsApp.png)

![Facebook](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/tech-facebook.png)

## Gaming

![Check out these five gaming monitors under  <span class='webrupee'>₹</span>20,000,](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Top 5 gaming monitors under ₹20000 you should consider

![gaming consoles](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Grab gaming consoles at discounted rates during Amazon Great Indian Festival: Up to 72% off

![Pokémon GO Wild Area 2025](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Pokémon GO Wild Area 2025 to bring Grimmsnarl family, Shiny Hatenna, and global challenges

![Shade Silver](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Shade Silver free on Steam for a limited time: Here’s how to get it

![Call of duty](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/ht-tech-bg-img-90-66.png)

### Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 skips Switch 2 at launch, release date and price leak

![View all](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/view-all-icon.png)

## Trending News

### Airtel 5G SIM card will now be delivered in 10 minutes with Blinkit- How to order

![Airtel 5G SIM card will now be delivered in 10 minutes with Blinkit- How to order](https://images.livemint.com/static/static/1x1_img.gif)

### Infinix Note 50s 5G+ set to launch in India with 64MP camera and MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC

![Infinix Note 50s 5G+](https://images.livemint.com/static/static/1x1_img.gif)

### Xiaomi X Pro QLED Series sale starts in India: Check price, availability, and more

![Xiaomi X Pro QLED Series sale starts in India: Check price, availability, and more](https://images.livemint.com/static/static/1x1_img.gif)

### Apple plans to train AI using your on-device data without accessing personal content or emails: Report

![Apple Intelligence AI training](https://images.livemint.com/static/static/1x1_img.gif)

### CMF Buds 2 key features and price revealed ahead of April 28 launch: Details inside

![CMF Buds 2](https://images.livemint.com/static/static/1x1_img.gif)

## Trending Gadgets

Mobiles

Laptops

Tablets

![HT Tech](https://images.hindustantimes.com/tech/static/revamp/images/png/HT_tech-new.gif)

- https://tech.hindustantimes.com/tech/news/google-warns-users-of-5-emerging-scams-how-ai-crypto-and-major-events-are-targeting-users-71731911138156.html