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How honeypot scams work, according to security experts
CNBC • • business
Key Points:
- Corporate security expert Shawnee Delaney warns that flattering LinkedIn messages can be the start of romance scams or "honeypot" schemes, where attackers use romantic interest to gain trust and access sensitive information.
- Honeypot scams are a form of social engineering increasingly relevant amid global AI competition, with companies like OpenAI training employees to recognize espionage tactics such as bribery, romantic manipulation, and blackmail.
- Attackers often use AI to gather personal information from social media and customize ploys involving flattery and elicitation, exploiting human nature and the desire to feel appreciated or loved.
- Delaney advises vigilance by trusting instincts, performing basic vetting of new contacts, recognizing red flags like requests for sensitive information, and practicing polite refusal techniques to avoid falling victim.
- Organizations and individuals are encouraged to report suspicious activity to internal security teams or authorities like the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center to help prevent and respond to these scams.
