The FBI is warning of a new kind of scam: A.I. kidnapping.
Virtual kidnapping has been on the FBI's warning list for a long time, where scammers create a fake kidnapping using social media pictures and posts to glean personal details and demand a ransom for a loved one they haven't kidnapped at all.
You can imagine that AI and deepfakes have poured gasoline on these cases. Of course, close inspection of these photos show some AI hallucinations, so you'll have some things to look out for.
Examples of these inaccuracies include missing tattoos or scars and inaccurate body proportions.
The FBI also issued some tips to deal with these scams.
When posting missing person information online, be mindful that scammers may contact you with fake information regarding your loved one.
Avoid providing personal information to strangers while traveling.
Establish a code word only you or your loved ones know that you can use to communicate.
Scammers portray a false sense of urgency. Stop and think; do the kidnapper's claims make sense?
Screenshot or record proof of life photos whenever possible.
Always attempt to contact your loved one before considering paying any ransom demand.
And one more just for good measure:
Count the fingers!
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