# Possible Scam Using Fake Email Compliments AI-generated fake thank-you emails could be a new scam tactic in the making - **Source:** [Schneier on Security](https://brifing.si/source/7aee9996-c7c0-47f7-89ec-66a1ed95f8cc) - **Published:** 2026-09-01 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/05636dd5-176f-46b4-9337-0308624ee1f4 ## Fake Thank-You Emails An author started receiving fake thank-you responses to automated subscription confirmation emails. These replies appear to be AI-generated and come from fake Gmail addresses not linked to actual subscribers. The emails bypass the subscription process and don't originate from genuine subscribers. ## Suspicion of Scam The author suspects these emails might be part of a scam attempt but can't identify the exact purpose. While expecting a traditional 'pig butchering' scam approach, the lack of responses to replies is notable. This suggests potential testing of a new fraud methodology. ## AI Usage The email content contains generic, overly complimentary phrases typical of AI-generated text. Scammers may be exploiting AI's rapid content generation capabilities. The sophistication points to organized misuse of language models for fraudulent purposes. ## Trust-Building Tactics Experts speculate scammers might be using these fake compliments to establish trust with targets. After gaining confidence, they could launch larger fraudulent schemes. This approach mirrors classic social engineering attack patterns seen in cybercrime. ## Subscription System Vulnerabilities The incident reveals weaknesses in email subscription verification processes. Scammers can send emails without completing subscription confirmations. This highlights the need for enhanced security measures in email communication systems to combat emerging fraud techniques. ## Potential Risks Such fake emails increase risks of abusing trusted communication channels. Particularly concerning for financial services and media industries, where similar scams could proliferate. The scalable nature of AI-generated content makes this a significant emerging threat. ## Similar Cases in Industry Previous reports identified similar fraud attempts using AI-generated fake content. However, this organized, scalable email campaign may signal a new trend. Cybersecurity experts warn about potential increase in such sophisticated attacks across sectors. ## Protective Measures Users should exercise caution with unexpected, overly flattering emails. Email providers need to develop new filtering mechanisms to detect AI-generated fake content. Raising awareness about these evolving scam tactics is crucial for digital safety. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.schneier.com/blog/archives/2026/09/whats-the-scam.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._