Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Warns of AI-Powered Scams: How to Spot the Red Flags Before It’s Too Late

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) is issuing a public warning this week after a growing number of residents reported being targeted in highly convincing scams powered by artificial intelligence. These new tactics use AI-generated voices, deepfakes, and spoofed caller IDs to trick people into handing over money or personal information—often believing they’re helping a loved one in distress.

Officials say the technology behind these scams is evolving fast, making it harder than ever to tell fact from fiction. And with South Florida’s large population of seniors and retirees, Miami-Dade has become a prime target.

The Latest Scam: “Hi Grandma, It’s Me” – But It’s Not

One of the most dangerous AI scams reported involves a phone call from someone pretending to be a relative in trouble, often claiming to have been arrested, hospitalized, or involved in an accident. The voice sounds eerily familiar—because it’s generated using AI voice cloning technology based on short audio clips taken from social media or online videos.

“These scams are no longer just about bad grammar or suspicious links,” said Sheriff Freddy Ramirez. “We’re now dealing with fake voices and fake faces that sound and look real. It’s a whole new level of deception.”

Top AI-Driven Scam Techniques to Watch For

1. AI Voice Cloning

   • Scammers mimic a family member’s voice using recordings from TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube.

   • Calls often involve urgent requests: “I’m in jail—please don’t tell anyone, just send money.”

2. Deepfake Video Messages

   • Victims receive pre-recorded videos with a familiar face (created using deepfake technology) asking for help or financial support.

3. Spoofed Phone Numbers

   • Caller ID shows the name or number of a trusted contact or agency, like your bank or the IRS.

4. “Too Urgent to Think” Tactics

   • Scammers create panic or emotional pressure so victims act before verifying the situation.

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify the Call: Hang up and call your loved one directly using a known number.

• Set a “Family Password”: Agree on a secret code word that only you and close relatives know, to confirm identity in emergencies.

• Be Skeptical of Urgent Money Requests: No legitimate agency or family member will demand wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards without proper verification.

• Limit Personal Info Online: Avoid posting voice clips, detailed videos, or sensitive content that scammers can use.

• Report Immediately: If you receive a suspicious call or message, report it to MDSO’s Fraud Hotline at 305-4FRAUD (305-437-2833).

Real Stories, Real Victims

Just last week, a 73-year-old Kendall resident nearly wired $5,000 to a fake “grandson” who claimed he’d been in a car crash in Mexico. The voice was nearly identical to his real grandson’s—but a quick follow-up call revealed it was a scam.

“This could happen to anyone,” said Sheriff Ramirez. “AI doesn’t discriminate—it just mimics. The best defense is knowledge and caution.”

The Bottom Line

As artificial intelligence becomes more powerful, so do the scams that exploit it. Don’t fall for emotional tricks or convincing voices—always pause, verify, and protect your personal information.