Last Updated on April 22, 2026 1:12 pm
The Avery County Sheriff's Office is warning the public about a sophisticated fraud scheme in which scammers are using artificial intelligence voice-cloning technology to impersonate family members and steal money.
Sheriff Michael P. Henley said the department recently received a report in which a victim was contacted by someone using AI to clone the voice of their son. The caller used personal details — including the son's background and the schools he had attended — to make the situation sound convincing and urgent, all while attempting to obtain a large sum of money under false pretenses.
Scams like this are being reported across the country, with a growing number targeting parents of college-aged students. The emotional realism of cloned voices, combined with high-pressure tactics and urgent requests, can make these situations feel very real and alarming.
The Sheriff's Office offered the following guidance to help protect residents and their families:
Pause and verify. If you receive a distress call from a loved one asking for money, hang up and call them directly on a known phone number before doing anything else.
Create a family safe word. Establish a code word or phrase that only your family knows, and use it to confirm identity in emergencies.
Be cautious of urgency. Scammers often create panic — “I've been arrested,” “I'm in danger” — to pressure quick decisions. Take a moment to think before acting.
Limit personal information online. Avoid sharing details such as schools, locations, or daily routines on social media that scammers could exploit.
Never send money or gift cards on demand. Especially if the request comes unexpectedly or involves secrecy.
Report suspicious calls. Anyone who believes they have been targeted should contact their local law enforcement agency immediately.
“Staying informed and taking a moment to verify can prevent you from becoming a victim,” the Sheriff's Office said. “Please share this information with friends and family to help keep our community safe.”
