AI-powered scam targets Mandarin-speakers, police warn
A new scam targeting Mandarin-speaking residents has emerged, where fraudsters use artificial intelligence to impersonate doctors and medical professionals over the phone, resulting in multiple victims losing tens of thousands of dollars. Police are urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious phone calls.
Police are warning the community to be cautious of a new scam targeting Mandarin-speaking residents, where fraudsters use artificial intelligence to impersonate doctors and medical professionals over the phone.
The scammers are using AI to clone the voices of doctors, general practitioners, and surgeons, and are targeting victims with fake health concerns. The goal is to gain credibility and then instruct them to buy gift cards and provide the code via text message.
Multiple victims lose tens of thousands of dollars
Police have received multiple reports of the scam, including one victim who lost $50,000 after buying gift cards over a three-day period. Another victim lost $40,000 after being repeatedly pressured into buying more gift cards by a scammer who exploited their urgent health conditions.
"If you are contacted by anyone claiming to be a doctor, general practitioner or surgeon that instructs you to purchase gift cards, do not comply with their demands," Detective Acting Inspector Eleanor Vallas said.
"We take this scam extremely seriously and want victims to know that there are no barriers in reporting these matters," she said. "We can and will help you."
Police urge community to remain vigilant
Acting Inspector Vallas has urged the community to keep records of any phone calls they have about their health, including screenshots of any messages.
"By reporting these crimes to police, you are also helping us form intelligence to investigate, catch those responsible and prevent this from happening to others in future," she said.
"Never also transfer money or provide personal details to anyone who requests it over the phone unless you made the call yourself. If you are unsure, then talk it over with someone you trust, or the police, before taking any action."
More information about scams is available on the Scamwatch website, and victims can also report what happened to them, including anonymously, to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.