KMBC 9 recently conducted a local test to see how easily artificial‑intelligence voice‑cloning software can impersonate a familiar voice. Using publicly posted videos of KMBC reporter Byra Berry, cybersecurity specialist Aaron Weissenfluh gathered about 32 minutes of audio and fed it into a voice‑cloning program that costs only $11.

How the test was performed

Weissenfluh did not need a recording studio or a scripted script; the audio was already available on YouTube and Facebook. After the software generated a digital version of Berry’s voice, the reporter called her own cousin using the AI‑generated voice. The cousin, unaware she was part of an experiment, believed she was speaking with Berry.

Although the cousin eventually noticed pauses in the conversation, the voice itself was convincing enough to create the illusion of a genuine call. The experiment demonstrates that a familiar voice is no longer reliable proof of identity.

Why this matters for Kansas City families

Scammers can exploit this technology to impersonate a loved one, especially in emergencies when a caller may request money or urgent action. A trusted voice can bypass normal caution, making it easier for fraudsters to succeed.

Practical steps to protect yourself

• Do not rely on voice alone. If you receive an unexpected call from a family member asking for money, hang up and call the person back on a known number.
• Establish a family code word that only you and your relatives know. Use it to verify identity during urgent situations.
• Be cautious about posting videos or audio recordings online. Publicly available recordings provide the raw material scammers need to train voice‑cloning tools.
• Stay alert for pressure tactics. If a caller insists on secrecy or demands immediate action, treat the request with suspicion.

What the community can do

Local law‑enforcement and consumer‑protection agencies are aware of the growing threat of AI‑generated voice scams. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious calls to the Kansas City Police Department’s non‑emergency line. Community groups can also host informational sessions to educate seniors and vulnerable households about the risks.

The takeaway is clear: while technology offers many benefits, it also creates new avenues for fraud. By staying vigilant, verifying callers, and limiting the amount of personal audio shared online, Kansas City families can protect themselves from this emerging threat.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.