TV hosts Lahiru Mudalige and Harindra Jayalal have warned the public about a scam involving fraudsters who impersonate them using AI-generated voices to solicit donations for fake cancer charities.
Speaking to Newswire, Mudalige said the scammers created a WhatsApp account with his photo and contacted businesspeople he had previously interviewed, falsely claiming to raise funds.
“Those who got these calls say the suspect spoke like me. Victims said it even sounded exactly like me. I don’t know if they’re using AI voice technology,” Mudalige said.
He said a leading businessman nearly transferred Rs. 500,000 before the scam was exposed when the businessman’s secretary contacted his office to verify the request. Mudalige added that he has received 10 to 15 complaints about similar calls.
Jayalal, who also addressed the issue on social media, said the scammers used similar methods to target business and organization leaders who had participated in his programs.
“No matter how cautiously and responsibly we live, such deceitful individuals cause harm not only to us but to many innocent people,” Jayalal said. He plans to file a formal complaint with police. (Newswire)
- Public advisory: How to avoid impersonation and charity scams
1. Verify before donating: Contact individuals directly through verified channels before giving money.
2. Avoid unfamiliar numbers: Don’t engage with or send money to unknown or suspicious numbers.
3. Beware of AI voice mimicry: Scammers may use voice technology to impersonate public figures. Verify independently if a call seems unusually convincing.
4. Protect personal data: Don’t share your NIC, bank details, or sensitive information over unsolicited calls.
5. Report suspicious activity: Contact your local police or the Cyber Crimes Division if you suspect a scam.
6. Share verified information: Help others stay informed by sharing official posts and warnings from affected individuals.