New York Wedding Photographer and Videographer

It's a scam. (We willlllll want a phone call)

Over the last couple years, we find ourselves constantly wondering if inquiries are scams.

Most of them are pretty clear.

Is this happening to you?

We can deal with it, and I suppose it is a sign that your SEO is working…. BUT it makes me worried (Cause that’s what I do). for my friends and family. Did you know they can call you on the phone now? Using AI.

We have started requiring a phone chat to move forward with a new client. As a way to be sure we are not wasting our time on a scam.

I looked up some tips on how to tell. I thought maybe somebody else could use them.

Particularly for our parents.

Because I worry most for them.

Maybe SHARE THESE WITH a person over 60 who might be more easily scammed?

1. Listen for unnatural speech patterns

AI voices have improved, but often still:

  • Speak too smoothly or too evenly (lacking human imperfections like “um,” “uh,” etc.)

  • Pause awkwardly or speak too quickly in response to your interruptions

  • Struggle with complex questions or off-script topics

Try this:
Interrupt or ask an unrelated question (e.g., “What’s the weather like right now?”). AI systems may get confused or repeat something irrelevant.

2. Check for background noise

AI-generated calls often:

  • Have no background noise or a clearly looped/unnatural background

  • Sound too “clean” or robotic

Real calls usually have some background ambience—even subtle ones.

3. Don’t trust the caller ID

Scammers can spoof phone numbers to make it look like someone familiar (like your bank or a relative). If the caller claims to be someone you know:

  • Hang up and call them back on a number you trust

4. Watch for emotional manipulation

AI scams often rely on urgency or fear:

  • “You must act now”

  • “Your account has been compromised”

  • “A family member is in danger”

Real institutions don’t demand action immediately over the phone.

5. Use a safe word (for family and friends)

If you’re worried about impersonation:

  • Set a code word with close contacts that only you and they know

  • Ask for it if something feels off

6. Never share personal info during an unexpected call

Legitimate services won’t call asking for:

  • Your full SSN

  • Bank info

  • Passwords or 2FA codes

Always hang up and verify independently.

Chelse Thompson