Protecting What Matters Most: Staying Safe From Today's Scams and AI Fraud
- David J. Blount, CFP®
- Jul 8
- 4 min read
Scammers are using AI and impersonation tactics more than ever. Regarding internet fraud alone, the FBI reports receiving more than one million online financial crime complaints in 2025, with losses totaling almost $20.9 billion — a 26% increase from 2024. Learn the warning signs and simple steps to help protect yourself.
At Investment and Insurance Planning Services, we believe financial planning is about more than investments and retirement strategies. It's about helping protect the financial well-being of the people and families we serve.
Unfortunately, scams and fraud attempts have become increasingly sophisticated. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have made it easier for criminals to impersonate financial organizations, create convincing messages, and target individuals through phone calls, text messages, emails, websites, and social media.
Our goal is not to alarm you, but to help you stay informed and vigilant.
Recognizing Today's Scams
Modern scams often appear legitimate. Fraudsters may use:
AI-generated phone calls that mimic a loved one's voice.
Text messages claiming to be from banks or government agencies.
Emails that appear to come from financial or personal businesses.
Fake websites designed to look authentic.
Lottery or Sweepstake Scams.
Relationship scams.
Social media messages from impersonated friends, family members, or professionals.
The goal is typically the same: create a sense of urgency, establish credibility, and convince you to provide personal information, passwords, or money.
Be Alert for Impersonation Attempts
We have become aware of scammers impersonating financial advisors, financial institutions, government agencies, and other professionals. These messages can appear convincing.
If you ever happen to receive an unexpected call, text, email, or social media message claiming to be from our office and something doesn’t seem right:
Do not provide personal or financial information.
Do not respond to requests involving money or account changes.
End the communication.
Contact our office using a known phone number or email address.
We would always rather take a quick call than have a client become a victim of fraud. Never feel as though we are too busy with your questions and service inquiries.
A Recent Industry Security Notification
AssetMark recently notified us that certain files containing personal information, including names, addresses, account numbers, and Tax Identification Numbers/Social Security numbers, may have been exposed.
Importantly, AssetMark has confirmed that client accounts were not accessed and assets remain secure. Login credentials, banking, and ACH information were not compromised. The information involved cannot, by itself, be used to move money, transact in accounts, or access systems.
AssetMark is notifying affected individuals directly and is offering credit monitoring and identity theft protection services at no cost.
While there is no indication of impact to client assets, this serves as a reminder to stay vigilant. Exposed information may be used to make phishing attempts more convincing. Always verify unexpected communications before acting.
Common Warning Signs
Be cautious if you encounter:
Pressure to act immediately.
Requests for Social Security numbers, passwords or account information.
Requests involving gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or other irreversible payments.
Investment opportunities promising high guaranteed or risk-free returns.
If something feels unusual, take time to verify before acting.
Industry Research Highlights
The AssetMark notification is a reminder of a broader trend affecting consumers nationwide. For additional information, we have included a copy of the CFP Board's recent report on financial fraud awareness and prevention. Recent research from the CFP Board found that 3 in 5 Americans have either experienced financial fraud themselves or know someone who has over the past three years. More than half expect that they or someone close to them could be targeted by a scam in the coming year.
The research also highlights a growing concern: fraud schemes are becoming increasingly sophisticated through the use of artificial intelligence, including AI-generated voices, deepfakes, and highly personalized phishing attempts. These tactics can make fraudulent communications appear remarkably convincing.
One of the study's key findings is the importance of having a financial professional as a resource when questions arise. Whether evaluating a suspicious request, identifying warning signs, or responding quickly to potential fraud, having a knowledgeable partner can help reduce risk and provide peace of mind.
While technology continues to evolve, the best defense remains a combination of awareness, verification, and seeking guidance when needed.
For more in depth reporting on this subject, please click the link to following report by the CFP BOARD OF STANDARDS.
CFP BOARD OF STANDARDS Guarding Against Financial Fraud
How to Protect Yourself
A few simple habits can make a meaningful difference:
Verify unexpected communications using known contact information.
Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
Avoid clicking suspicious links or opening unexpected attachments.
Monitor financial accounts regularly.
Consider a family “safe word” or verification question for added protection.
Speak with your financial professional, attorney, accountant, or family member when unsure.
Remember: Stop, Verify, Then Act
If you receive an unexpected communication involving your finances:
✓ Pause before responding.
✓ Verify the source using contact information you have obtained from prior communication.
✓ Contact our office for additional guidance and report suspected violations.
We Are Here as a Resource
If you ever receive a financial request or communication that seems unusual, please contact our office before taking action. We are always happy to help determine whether it is legitimate.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your financial journey. Please share this information with friends and family who may benefit.
When in doubt, call us directly.
To schedule a free consultation, reach out to us at service@davidblountIIPS.com or (407) 542-3249. You can also send us a message here.
Warm Regards,
Important Disclosure
This communication is provided for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, cybersecurity, or investment advice. Fraud prevention strategies cannot guarantee protection against all forms of financial crime. Individuals should consult appropriate professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
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