Cobourg Police Service is warning residents to be cautious online after a local resident lost over $300 in a new scam using artificial intelligence.
The victim recently saw an ad on Facebook promoting a fake investment opportunity. The post featured a well-known celebrity, which made it appear trustworthy. After contacting the company and sharing personal and financial details, the resident noticed a charge on their credit card. Realising it was a scam, they quickly contacted their bank and cancelled their cards.
While the financial loss was limited, police say this case shows how fraudsters are using advanced tools like AI to appear more believable and reach people on social media platforms.
Cobourg Police are reminding the public not to engage with unsolicited investment offers, especially those that promise unusually high returns. They encourage residents to speak with trusted individuals, research companies before investing, and avoid downloading unknown software or allowing remote access to their devices.
Residents can learn more about protecting themselves from fraud by visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or contacting their local police service.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)