Google’s AI Overviews Can Scam You. Here’s How to Stay Safe

Wired

by David Nield

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Google’s AI Overviews are increasingly becoming a vehicle for scams, as malicious actors inject fraudulent phone numbers into these synthesized summaries. This issue has emerged as a significant concern, particularly since many users rely on AI Overviews as a quick and convenient source of information. Unlike traditional search results, which provide clear links and allow users to verify information directly, AI Overviews present curated summaries that can misleadingly appear trustworthy. Recent reports from The Washington Post and Digital Trends highlight instances where these summaries have included fake contact numbers, leading unsuspecting individuals to call scam lines and risk identity theft or financial fraud. The problem arises because AI Overviews aggregate data from various low-profile online sources without rigorous verification. Scammers exploit this by posting false information alongside legitimate company details, which the AI then incorporates into its summaries. For example, a user searching for a company’s contact number might end up dialing a fraudulent line operated by scammers posing as the actual business. This manipulation underscores how easily misinformation can spread through AI-powered systems and why users must exercise caution when relying on such tools. While Google has emphasized its efforts to enhance anti-spam measures and prioritize official customer support numbers, experts warn that the design of AI Overviews makes users more vulnerable to deception. The technology’s reliance on synthesized data without clear disclaimers or source attributions can erode user trust in search results. Additionally, similar issues have been observed in other AI-driven search engines, suggesting this is a broader challenge for the tech industry. To stay safe, users are advised to verify critical details like phone numbers by directly visiting reputable sources, such as official company websites. This extra step may seem inconvenient, but it significantly reduces the risk of falling victim to scams. As AI continues to play a central role in search technology, understanding these vulnerabilities becomes crucial for tech-savvy readers who value accuracy and security online. The rise of AI-generated content also raises broader questions about misinformation and trust in digital tools. While AI offers convenience, its susceptibility to manipulation highlights the need for users to remain vigilant and not fully rely on automated summaries for critical decisions. This issue is particularly relevant for those interested in tech, as it challenges the very premise of relying on AI for reliable information retrieval.

Verticals

techscience

Originally published on Wired on 2/15/2026