Google AI Displaying Fake Support Numbers Raises Scam Warnings
Google’s AI-powered search features are increasingly showing fake customer support phone numbers, putting users at risk of scams and financial fraud. This growing problem highlights the dangers of relying on AI-generated summaries for critical contact information.
One clear example involved Alex Rivlin, a real estate business owner. When searching for Royal Caribbean’s customer service number via Google’s AI Overview section, he was shown a fraudulent number operated by scammers. After sharing his credit card details, Rivlin narrowly avoided losing money once he realized the number was fake. He shared his experience publicly to warn others about how AI can be manipulated to deceive users.
Similar incidents have surfaced with other companies, including Southwest Airlines. Fake numbers appeared in AI-generated summaries, leading scammers to charge customers excessive fees for minor changes like correcting a misspelt name on tickets.
How AI Results Can Mislead Customer Support Professionals
This issue extends beyond airlines and cruises. Users searching for food delivery services’ support numbers have reported scams as well. For example, a 65-year-old man lost over $3,000 after searching “Swiggy call centre” on Google. Swiggy’s official site warns it doesn’t have any customer care phone lines, yet AI results list misleading numbers, some tied only to partner services or completely unrecognized.
These fake numbers often come from scammers flooding forums and user-generated content sites, which AI systems scrape for information. This manipulation causes AI summaries to present false or harmful details.
Why This Happens and What Can Be Done
- Scammers post fake contact numbers across online platforms to increase visibility in AI-generated search results.
- Hackers can craft prompts that trick Google’s Gemini AI into including fraudulent details in its summaries.
- Google is aware and working to remove unreliable AI Overview entries but hasn’t fully resolved the issue.
Experts recommend that customer support professionals and everyday users rely strictly on official company websites for contact information. This remains the safest way to avoid falling victim to scams that exploit AI-generated content.
For those working in customer support, it’s crucial to educate clients and colleagues about verifying support numbers and recognizing signs of fraud. Being proactive can prevent costly mistakes and protect sensitive personal data.
Learn more about how AI tools might affect customer service roles and how to stay ahead at Complete AI Training.
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