10/15/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/15/2024 07:48
As technology advances, scammers are becoming smarter in their attacks. VA is committed to protecting Veterans' benefits against fraudulent activity and raising awareness of the various cyber scams impacting Veterans and their beneficiaries.
Staying informed of evolving fraud tactics is important to protect yourself and your benefits. One of the newest ways fraudsters engage in cyber attacks is by using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, collectively referred to as generative AI and Large Language Models (LLM). These are systems that can create synthetic text (A type of data that is created using machine learning algorithms to generate new content that is similar in structure to existing data), images, source code and other forms of media at an incredible speed. Depending on the prompts given by the user, the outputs can range from realistic to stylized (Realistic outputs refer to lifelike and accurate models, while stylized outputs emphasize exaggerated features and depart from real-world accuracy). LLMs are an essential part of deep learning, which is the foundation of ChatGPT and other Natural Language Processing technologies currently receiving widespread attention. Veterans should be aware of this technology and its potential for accessing their personally identifiable information and potentially compromise their benefit payments.
Veterans should be aware of cyber scams targeting their benefits, including phishing, identity theft, spoofing, email scams, ransomware, forgery, and wire and mail fraud.
VA recommends following these tips to practice safe online behavior and prevent fraud:
VA is working to combat cyber threats and better safeguard Veterans' benefits. These actions include enhancing security around direct deposit changes, collaborating with Federal partner agencies, and developing communications to increase awareness around cyber fraud.
VA provides essential tools and resources to help you protect your data. To boost your cybersecurity awareness and safeguard your data, watch VA's Protecting Veteran Information video.
If you miss a VA benefits payment, identify a discrepancy in payments, or find suspicious activity with your direct deposit account, contact VA immediately at 1-800-827-1000. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
To learn more about protecting Veterans from fraud, visit www.va.gov/VSAFE.