A
sophisticated scam using AI technology nearly pulled off a property sale in Hallandale Beach, but was thwarted by a title company's vigilance. The would-be scammer created an AI video image of a missing woman, claiming to be the owner of a vacant property. On a Zoom call with Florida Title and Trust, "Margaret McCartney" presented herself as the seller.

    However, red flags quickly emerged, including tax bills sent to the Bahamas despite her claim of being from West Virginia. President Lauren Albrecht suspected fraud and asked for proof of life, which is standard procedure when dealing with potential impersonations. The scammer used a photo of 76-year-old Margrit Pritchard, who went missing in California in 2018.

    The Broward County Property Appraiser's Office is currently investigating an AI real estate fraud case and fears it will become more sophisticated. They have a crimes prevention team that has worked 180 cases this year, making 60 arrests. The title company's quick thinking prevented a potential loss of $250,000 for the buyer.

    For Broward County residents, free fraud detection software is available to help prevent similar scams.