Thuringia police say a man in Altenburg lost about 42,000 euros to investment fraudsters after an AI-made advert showing a well-known politician
The Gera regional police reported on 18 June 2026 that an older man in Altenburg, Thuringia, had fallen victim to investment fraud. According to the police, he found an online advert made with artificial intelligence that showed a well-known politician and promised high returns. After he contacted the fraudsters in mid-May, he gave them personal data and remote access to his computer; they took control of his online banking and made several transfers totalling about 42,000 euros. The police say about 28,000 euros was secured; the investigation continues.
AI involvement reported · Causal attribution alleged · 1 source · Added 20/10/2026