Scammers in Halifax using AI to clone loved ones’ voices, police warn

CITYnews halifax / By Natasha O’Neill

Police are warning older adults in Halifax that there is an increase in a loved one scam in the region.

Officials said they have responded to a rise in fraud targeting seniors, with five reports in the past week. They are telling people that scammers want to build trust with them and then take advantage of the relationship.

In the recent incidents, a victim receives a call from someone pretending to be a family member, saying they have been arrested. In some cases, scammers have used artificial intelligence to clone the loved one’s voice.

A second person saying they are from the legal system is involved and tells the victim they need to pay money to have their loved one released from custody.

Police are asking people to not give any personal information during these situations.

Related:

• Nova Scotians cautioned to be wary of rising home improvement scams
• Four men charged in months-long home repair scam
• Hundreds of thousands of dollars lost locally in scam targeting seniors

“In Canada, law enforcement and court officials will not attend a residence to collect money in relation to bail,” officials said.

Halifax police released photos of a courier and vehicle they believe are involved in the scam. They are hoping to speak to the person.

Any information on his identity can be reported to 902-490-5020.