AI scam targets islanders with fake minister posts

Police warned people to think twice before clicking links, entering personal details or providing bank details

AI-generated content of Guernsey's top politician has been used by fraudsters in a scam to try and persuade islanders into making investments, police say.

The scam, known as a deepfake, shows fake video and images of Guernsey's chief minister, Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, appearing to recommend an investment scheme, as well as fake local newspaper articles.

De Sausmarez said she hoped "most people would quickly realise it's fake", but advised islanders to warn vulnerable people the posts were fraudulent.

A Guernsey Police spokesperson said: "Please be aware that this story, along with any others that may surface featuring Deputies requesting payment or investment, are not real and are a scam."

Police added people should be wary of "articles that promote too-good-to-be-true investments or prizes".

Deepfake scams have become more common in recent years as AI technology improves, with faked images of high-profile figures such as financial journalist Martin Lewis and London mayor Sadiq Khan used by people online to trick people.

Guernsey Police warned people to think twice before clicking links, entering personal details or providing bank details.

Anyone who suspects they may have been the victim of online fraud should contact their bank immediately, a police spokesperson added.