Scammers Use AI-Generated Pet Images to Extort Owners
Summary
Scammers reportedly use AI-generated images to make false claims that they have found missing pets, then demand money or threaten harm. The article describes the scam and offers steps to verify claims and avoid advance payments.
Key points
- Scammers reportedly contact people who posted missing-pet appeals and send AI-generated images to make claims of finding the animal more convincing.
- They may demand a reward or payment for emergency treatment, refuse to meet before payment, or threaten to sell or harm the pet.
- The BBC interviewed two people targeted after posting missing-pet messages on social media.
- Malwarebytes says users submitted three types of pet-related scam attempts to Scam Guard in the past month, including a demand for successive Zelle payments.
- Keep a distinctive pet feature private so a supposed finder can be asked to identify it.
- Do not pay in advance; verify the animal in person and contact any claimed veterinary hospital using independently found contact details.
Article Details
- Topic
- Scammers use AI-generated images of missing pets to extort owners