AI-Powered Romance Scams Net Billions for Global Cybercrime Rings

AI-powered romance scams are expanding globally, with fake online identities, deepfakes and voice cloning helping scammers lure victims into relationships before stealing money or data; FBI data show Americans lost over $16 billion to cybercrime in 2024, and offenses are often run from overseas centers. Authorities have launched sanctions and the Scam Center Strike Force to disrupt networks, while experts urge vigilance for rapid intimacy, secrecy, and pressure that signal potential fraud.