Scammers are using AI-generated images to make it appear that they have found missing pets, according to a BBC report. The scheme targets owners who post about lost dogs or cats on social media groups and online forums.
Scammers reportedly take images shared by pet owners and use AI tools to create pictures of the animal. They then contact the owner, claim to have found the pet and send the fabricated images as proof. The scammer may offer to meet locally and ask for a reward.
As the proposed meeting approaches, the scammer may change the terms and demand a digital gift card before handing over the pet. The report also describes more brazen demands for tens of thousands of dollars by wire transfer. In some cases, scammers have reportedly threatened to kill the animal when owners questioned them or refused to pay.
The report warns that people searching for a missing pet may be especially vulnerable because of the stress and urgency of the situation. Its advice is not to send gift cards to strangers who request them online or by text message.
Sources: Mashable.