Port St. Lucie warns residents of AI-driven scams after victim wires money in fake notice

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (CBS12) — The City of Port St. Lucie is warning its residents about a growing Florida trend: AI-related scams.

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PSL says scammers are using AI to create highly convincing emails, letters and phone calls. A Port St. Lucie resident recently fell victim after receiving a fake notice claiming to be from the city, asking them to wire money for a fee.

Here’s what Port St. Lucie wants residents to remember:

Law enforcement will never demand payment for a warrant.The city will never ask residents to wire money for permits or applications.Government agencies do not accept payment through gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.

Here’s how residents can protect themselves:

Verify unexpected requests by contacting the agency directly using an official phone number or website.Be wary of urgent or threatening language; scammers often try to rush you.Don’t rely on caller ID, email names or logos, which can be easily faked.Never share personal or financial information with someone who contacts you out of the blue.Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.