Shanghai Man Falls Victim to AI Girlfriend Scam, Losing $28,000
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- February 27, 2025
- 3:48 pm
- 40
- Technology
An AI girlfriend scam tricked a Shanghai man into losing nearly $28,000, exposing the dangers of AI-driven online fraud. The victim, Mr. Liu, believed he was in a long-distance relationship with a woman named Ms. Jiao, who turned out to be an AI-generated persona.
How the AI Girlfriend Scam Worked
Scammers used artificial intelligence to create realistic images and videos of Ms. Jiao. The AI-generated content convinced Mr. Liu that she was real. She sent messages, voice notes, and video clips, making the relationship seem genuine.
Over time, Ms. Jiao claimed she needed financial help for medical treatment. The scammers even created fake medical records and ID documents to make the story believable. Trusting her, Mr. Liu transferred 200,000 yuan ($28,000) to her account.
No Physical Meeting Raised No Suspicions
Throughout the relationship, Mr. Liu never met Ms. Jiao in person. However, the consistent communication and emotional attachment kept him from questioning her authenticity. The AI-generated girlfriend seemed real, making it easy for scammers to manipulate him.
AI-Driven Scams Are Increasing
The AI girlfriend scam is part of a growing trend of online romance fraud. Scammers now use AI to create fake identities and deceive victims. These scams exploit emotions, making victims send money without hesitation.
Earlier this month, Meta warned users about romance scams, advising them to be cautious of online relationships that involve money requests. Scammers often create fake profiles and use AI to enhance deception.
How to Avoid AI Scams
To prevent falling victim to an AI girlfriend scam, people should:
- Verify identities before sending money.
- Avoid relationships that never involve face-to-face meetings.
- Look for inconsistencies in photos and videos.
- Be cautious of financial requests, especially for medical reasons.
Authorities Warn Against Online Fraud
Cybercrime experts warn that AI-generated scams will increase in the future. Scammers continuously improve their techniques, making detection harder. Experts advise internet users to stay informed and report suspicious activities immediately.
The Shanghai case serves as a reminder that AI-driven deception is a serious threat. People must remain cautious to avoid falling prey to such scams.
