The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) of the Philippines raided a scam center in Mandaue City suspected of using artificial intelligence (AI) for "romance scams" targeting victims in Europe and the Middle East to deceitfully obtain funds.
This operation resulted in the arrest of 167 Filipino suspects and 2 Chinese nationals. Law enforcement found numerous scripts for scams, mobile phones, and unregistered SIM cards at the scene, confirming their use in automated scam conversations.
Ferdinand Lavin, the NBI Metro Manila Director, stated that the suspects might face charges under the Anti-Financial Account Fraud Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
Investigators were shocked to discover that the scam group used AI technology to generate realistic virtual faces, impersonating real people in video calls to gain victims' trust. NBI Director Medardo San Diego, after experiencing it firsthand, said, "When I faced the camera, my face was changing in real time, and the AI technology was convincing enough to be mistaken for real."
According to a confession by a Filipino suspect, the scam group has been operating for nearly three years, targeting at least three foreign victims daily. The suspect revealed that the scam process usually starts with building trust, followed by guiding the victims into so-called "investment plans."
"Honestly, the salary here is very high, much higher than ordinary jobs. As for conscience, we've set it aside long ago; everyone is just thinking about making money," a suspect confessed.
The NBI reminds the public not to be tempted by high salaries to engage in illegal activities, as it will not only face legal sanctions but could also ruin their future. The case is currently under further investigation, and those involved will be held accountable according to the law.
