This AI chatbot can help you identify scams

Antivirus provider Bitdefender has recently launched Scamio, an AI-driven chatbot. Its purpose is to help Aussies verify instances of fraud and online scams by showing the bot a screenshot of a message, or describing what the potential scammer has asked them to do. Scamio can be added as a contact on WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, and is also available to access via their web app. 

The chatbot combines Bitdefender’s top rated threat-detection algorithms, pattern recognition, machine learning, and data analysis techniques to give Aussies peace of mind when it comes to scam messages. 

To use Scamio, you’ll need to access the web app and then select which platform you’d like to chat on. You’ll need to sign in or create a Bitdefender account first if you dont have one. Once you’re logged in, you’ll be able to describe the scam or upload screenshots of suspicious texts, emails, links, or QR codes.

Even though scam losses are declining, Aussies are still losing an eye-watering amount of money. In 2023, Aussies lost $2.74 billion to scams! Even though this number was 13% less than predicted, scam activity is still on the rise. 

For seniors or those unfamiliar with the patterns and language used by scammers, Scamio can be a convenient and useful tool to help identify potential scams and keep safe online. 

If Scamio determines the suspicious message or email you’ve received could be a scam, do not engage. Even if it feels fraudulent but you’re not 100% sure, do not reply or click on any links, as this could lead you to an unsafe site. Protect your personal information, report the scam to Scamwatch, and consider installing antivirus software to keep yourself safe online.