AI-driven scams become harder to detect, warns aggregator
Mortgage brokers have been advised to strengthen their cyber security practices as artificial intelligence makes scams increasingly difficult to detect.
The call comes from mortgage aggregator Connective in response to a marked rise in broker engagement during Cyber Security Awareness Month, with visits to its Cyber Security Hub up by more than 90% and participation in cyber security training increasing by 15%. This year’s campaign placed special emphasis on AI, reflecting its growing role in shaping scam tactics and risk management in the mortgage sector .
Recent research from the International Data Corporation found that 51% of Australian organisations have encountered AI-powered cyber threats in the past year.
According to Ashley Jackson (pictured right), chief information officer at Connective, brokers often act when prompted, but new scams—created with tools such as “SpamGPT”—are designed to evade traditional warning signs and target sensitive client information.
“It is easy for cyber safety to slip down the list of priorities until something happens or a reminder lands in the inbox,” Jackson said. “AI has made scams more convincing, capable of mimicking voices, writing styles and even websites at industrial scale.
“Brokers cannot afford a ‘set and forget’ approach anymore. Threats evolve and so must our defences. Ongoing awareness and regular touchpoints make all the difference.”
Jackson noted that the industry has seen scams become more sophisticated, but brokers should focus on the responsible use of AI. “As an industry, we have witnessed the evolution of these scams,” he said. “This does not mean brokers should fear AI. Rather, be mindful of how it is used. Handled responsibly, AI can continue to make brokers more efficient and responsive. Technology should never come at the expense of client trust.”
Data from the October campaign showed that brokers spent 30% longer per session on the Cyber Security Hub, with activity peaking at 60% above baseline after awareness emails. “There is appetite for practical and relevant guidance,” Jackson said. “In fact, in a closing poll, 81% of our brokers said they felt better informed about cyber risks compared to the start of the campaign.
“Many brokers operate with lean teams and limited IT resources. Our role, as an aggregator that supports 21.3% of the national broker network – and that of the industry – is to keep that awareness active year-round and help brokers stay protected through consistent education and simple, actionable advice.”
Jackson added that while AI offers productivity benefits, it also requires greater discipline around data governance. “Building simple habits dramatically reduces risk. Secure data practices and continued education will be key so brokers and their clients can benefit from innovation without compromise,” he said.
A seven-point checklist has been issued to help brokers bolster their defences, including advanced email security, multi-factor authentication, endpoint protection, restricted external sharing, careful use of AI tools, verification of financial transactions, and secure backups and logs.
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