Wisconsin Seniors Warned About Rising AI-Powered Imposter Scams

MADISON, WI — The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is warning seniors to stay alert as AI-powered imposter scams increasingly target older adults. These schemes often take advantage of retirees with lifelong savings, using artificial intelligence to mimic the voices of loved ones.

How the Scam Works

Scammers typically call seniors pretending to be a grandchild or other relative. By using deepfake voice technology, they imitate familiar voices and claim to be in an urgent crisis — such as needing money for tuition, bail, or medical bills.

The callers then pressure victims to send funds through wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or other hard-to-trace methods, while urging them to keep the request a secret.

Steps to Stay Protected

Officials recommend several strategies to avoid being tricked:

• Pause before acting — Resist the instinct to help right away and verify the situation.
• Call back directly — Hang up and contact the family member through their regular phone number.
• Use a family password — Establish a code word for money-related emergencies so relatives can confirm if the request is real.
• Report suspicious calls — Victims should alert their financial institutions and local law enforcement immediately.

Where to Get Help

Wisconsin residents can find more resources or file complaints through the Consumer Protection website or by contacting the Consumer Protection Hotline at (800) 422-7128 or DATCPHotline@wisconsin.gov.

Have you or someone you know ever received a suspicious call claiming to be from a grandchild or loved one? How did you handle it — and what advice would you give others to avoid falling for these scams?