A Shanghai man lost nearly $28,000 in an online romance scam, falling victim to fraudsters who used AI-generated images and videos to create a fake girlfriend.
AI-Powered Romance Scam Leaves Victim Heartbroken
Scammers took online deception to a new level, using artificial intelligence to generate realistic videos and still images of a fictional woman named “Ms. Jiao.”
According to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, the man, identified as Mr. Liu, believed he was in a long-distance relationship and willingly sent money to support his “girlfriend’s” supposed business and family medical expenses.
How the Scam Worked
The fraudsters used AI tools to:
- Create convincing photos and videos – AI-generated images showed “Ms. Jiao” in different settings, making her seem real.
- Fabricate fake documents – They provided a forged ID and medical reports to make their requests for money more believable.
- Use emotional manipulation – They convinced Mr. Liu that he needed to help with urgent expenses.
The Role of AI in Modern Scams
The rise of AI-generated content has made scams more sophisticated and harder to detect. With tools capable of producing lifelike faces, voices, and even live video, fraudsters can now deceive victims more convincingly than ever before.
Earlier this month, Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, warned users about an increase in AI-driven romance scams, urging them to be cautious of online relationships that involve financial requests.
How to Protect Yourself from AI Scams
To avoid falling victim to similar scams:
- Verify identities – Always request video calls or in-person meetings before sending money.
- Be skeptical of urgent financial requests – Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure victims.
- Check for inconsistencies – AI-generated images and videos may have subtle errors, such as mismatched facial expressions.
- Report suspicious activity – If you suspect a scam, report it to the relevant authorities immediately.
AI technology is evolving rapidly, and while it offers incredible advancements, it also creates new risks. Staying informed and cautious can help prevent falling into these high-tech traps.
