WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT
Attempting to regulate online voice cloning platforms would be a complex matter, with almost all of them hosted outside of Singapore’s jurisdiction, experts told CNA.
Asst Prof Saifuddin from NTU said cooperation between governments and tech companies would be needed to set boundaries to safeguard users.
At an industry level, telecom providers can also implement advanced call authentication and improve their spam-blocking technologies, he said.
Asst Prof Saifuddin’s advice to individuals was to use a different communication channel where possible, such as text or email, to confirm the request. “Never rely solely on the incoming call for verification,” he said.
NUS’ Assoc Prof Sim pointed to skills that could be picked up, such as how to listen out for hissing, mismatched background sounds in different segments of the speech, a lack of background sound, or abrupt transitions from one sentence to the next.
But he also acknowledged that these were not foolproof, with voice cloning technology constantly improving.
CSA said to be on alert when receiving urgent and unsolicited requests for monetary transfers or sensitive details such as passwords and banking credentials.
“For voice calls from a supposed friend or family member, ask questions that only they would know … If in doubt, do hang up and call the friend or family member directly on their known number,” said the agency’s spokesperson.
In the case of callers claiming to be from institutions, dial their official hotline to verify.
“A healthy dose of scepticism is important in today’s digital world,” said CSA. “Not everything we see or hear online is what it appears to be, and if it’s too good to be true, then it probably is.”
That was also my takeaway from the experiment, topped off with a dose of wariness. The next time I get a call from an unknown number, I won’t be the first to speak.
Because all a scammer could need is a “hello, who’s this” – and the next you know, an impersonator is calling your family and friends.
