News 12 Staff

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Jun 11, 2024, 7:03 AM

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Updated

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A familiar scam targeting grandparents is making a comeback, fueled by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) voice cloning technology.

Westchester County's Consumer Protection Director James Maisano warns that scammers are using AI to impersonate grandchildren in distress, demanding immediate financial assistance.

"They demand money through mobile payment apps, wire transfers, but the most common method now is purchasing gift cards," Maisano said. "They'll tell you to go to the grocery store, buy gift cards, and give them the numbers off the back."

Officials urge grandparents to be vigilant. AI technology allows scammers to obtain audio and video recordings of their actual grandchildren, making the scam even more believable.

To protect themselves, Maisano advises grandparents to hang up the phone immediately and call another family member to verify their grandchild's safety.