Reader TTS

By

Alicia R. Williams

Artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming numerous facets of our daily lives. For example, it powers personal assistants like Siri and Alexa, provides personalized

recommendations on platforms like Netflix and Amazon, and aids in navigation and travel through Google Maps and Waze. However, AI also brings new challenges, especially in the areas of scams

and fraud.

A recent AARP study was conducted to understand the concerns of U.S. adults ages 50 and older regarding the potential misuse of AI for identity theft and fraud. The findings revealed a

significant level of worry among this demographic. A large majority of older adults are concerned about the various ways AI can be used fraudulently to get people to share confidential

information and/or make financial transactions, including:

percentAutomated scams targeting large numbers of people simultaneously: 81 percent

Additionally, the study found a significant majority of older adults expressed worry that AI could be used fraudulently to influence the 2024 Presidential election (85 percent) and that they

might personally become targets of an AI-related fraud in the future (77 percent).

Methodology

This survey was fielded from August 15 to 19, 2024, and completed by 1,000 U.S. adults age 50-plus, via the Foresight 50+ Omnibus. Funded and operated by NORC at the University of Chicago,

Foresight 50+ is a probability-based panel designed to be representative of the U.S. household population age 50 or older. Interviews were conducted online and via phone. All data are

weighted by age, sex, education, race/ethnicity, region, political party and AARP membership.

For more information, please contact Alicia Williams, Ph.D., AARP Research at [email protected]. For media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Suggested citation:

Williams, Alicia R. Older Adults Express High Concern and Limited Knowledge About Scams and Fraud Involving Artificial Intelligence. Washington, DC: AARP Research, December 2024. 

https://doi.org/10.26419/res.00873.001

MORE FROM AARP

AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline Plays Vital Role in Supporting Fraud Victims

In 2023, consumers lost $10 billion to scams. The helpline, staffed by trained specialists, helps victims manage their emotions and avoid scams.

Holiday Scams Are on the Rise

According to an AARP national survey of nearly 1,900 U.S. adults, more than three-quarters (82%) have encountered some kind of fraudulent activity.

Worry About Scams and Fraud Is High Among Coloradans

Colorado ElderWatch 2024 Survey reveals worry about fraud is high among Coloradans and a need for heightened consumer awareness and education.

Elder Financial Exploitation: Caregivers Are Victims, Too

Victims of elder financial exploitation often include those who know and care for the victimized person, such as friends, neighbors, and family members.

How Banks and Credit Unions Can Better Serve and Protect People 50-Plus

The insights gleaned from this research provide focus areas and priorities for financial institutions to cater to the diverse needs of consumers, regardless of age, thus fostering trust and

resilience against financial exploitation.

{ "maxItems":5, "itemsPerRow":"3", "rows":"4", "loadMore":"6", "adsNum":"0", "resultsLength":"5" }