AI Scams Now Targeting Local Residents

By: Nora Almazan

Banks County Sheriff’s Office Urges Public to Stay Alert

The Banks County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a growing type of fraud that is becoming increasingly convincing — Artificial Intelligence scams.

According to authorities, scammers are now using AI technology to imitate real people. In some cases, criminals are cloning voices and creating messages that sound exactly like a loved one, employer, or trusted organization.

Investigators say these scams are designed to trigger panic and urgency so victims act quickly without verifying the situation.

How the Scam Works

Scammers may contact victims through phone calls, text messages, or social media. The message often claims to be from a family member in trouble, a boss needing immediate help, or even a bank or government agency.

Residents should be especially cautious if they receive:

• Calls or messages claiming to be a relative needing money urgently

• Sudden “emergency” requests from an employer, bank, or government office

• Instructions to send money immediately

  
  

Law enforcement says the payment method is a major warning sign. Scammers commonly demand payment through:

• Gift cards

• Wire transfers

• Cryptocurrency

  
  

These payment methods are nearly impossible to recover once sent.

Why AI Makes It Dangerous

In the past, scams were easier to spot due to poor grammar, suspicious email addresses, or unfamiliar voices. AI technology has changed that.

Criminals can now clone a person’s voice using audio clips from social media videos, voicemail greetings, or online posts. A parent may receive a call that sounds exactly like their child, crying and asking for help. A business employee may receive a realistic message that appears to come directly from their boss.

Because the message feels personal and urgent, victims often react before thinking.

How to Protect Yourself

The Sheriff’s Office stresses one rule above all: slow down.

If you receive a request involving money or personal information:

• Do not act immediately

• Do not trust caller ID alone

• Do not send money based on a message

  
  

Instead, verify first. Contact the person or business using a phone number you already have saved or one listed on an official website. Never use the number provided in the suspicious message.

Residents should also remember: legitimate businesses and government agencies will not demand payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or emergency wire transfers.

Law enforcement officials also recommend families create a private verification phrase, often called a “safe word,” known only to close relatives. If someone receives an emergency call requesting money or help, they should ask the caller for that phrase before taking any action. Because AI scammers can now convincingly imitate voices, this simple step can quickly reveal a fraud attempt. Authorities emphasize that taking a moment to verify a situation can prevent panic decisions and protect families from losing thousands of dollars.

What To Do If You Are Targeted

If you believe you have been contacted by an AI scammer — or have already sent money — authorities urge you to report it immediately. Quick reporting may help investigators track patterns and prevent others from becoming victims.

Anyone who suspects an AI scam should contact the Banks County Sheriff’s Office right away.

Officials say awareness is the best defense.

“Scammers are counting on panic,” the Sheriff’s Office advises. “Take a moment, verify the situation, and protect yourself.”