Criminals are now using artificial intelligence to mimic CEOs, attorneys and even federal agents, tricking businesses and individuals into sending money or personal data. In response, the Trump administration and Texas lawmakers have moved quickly to give authorities new powers to fight these high‑tech scams.
Federal action: Executive Order and task force
On March 6, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14390, directing federal agencies to develop coordinated measures against international scam centers and cyber‑enabled financial fraud. The order calls for stronger inter‑agency cooperation, prioritizes prosecution of AI‑assisted fraud, and urges the recovery of victims’ funds through seized criminal proceeds.
Just days later, the Justice Department announced the creation of a Super Intelligence Task Force. The task force will focus on malicious uses of emerging technology by foreign actors, transnational criminal groups and other offenders. While the task force has not yet reported concrete results, its mandate signals a federal commitment to curbing AI‑driven impersonation.
Texas legislation targets AI‑generated fraud
Texas has taken its own steps. Senate Bill 2373, effective September 1, 2025, makes it a crime to use artificially generated media or phishing tools to commit financial abuse. The law also provides a civil pathway for victims to seek damages, though liability depends on the specific conduct and statutory requirements.
House Bill 149, known as the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act, took effect on January 1, 2026. It establishes rules for certain AI applications, including required disclosures in government and health‑care contexts, and gives the attorney general enforcement authority. The bill does not ban all synthetic voices or images, but it creates clear boundaries for misuse.
Local law‑enforcement outreach
Closer to home, the Garland Police Department scheduled a public briefing at the West Garland Library on November 5. The presentation will warn residents about deceptive calls, messages and AI voice‑cloning, and will offer practical steps for verification.
The FBI has also issued guidance, urging people to confirm unexpected requests through a trusted phone number or communication channel, use multi‑factor authentication, and be wary of unsolicited links. For businesses, a secondary confirmation before releasing funds can stop a scam even when the caller sounds convincing.
Recent indictment highlights the threat
Federal prosecutors in New York unsealed charges on November 5 against Jacob Soall, Sharon Hazan and Guy Sheetrit, alleging an international fraud scheme that stole more than $129 million from companies worldwide between 2024 and 2026. According to the indictment, the defendants used “super intelligence” to pose as corporate executives and lawyers, directing large wire transfers into accounts they controlled. Arrests were made in Spain and the United Kingdom, and extradition requests remain pending.
While the defendants have not been convicted and retain the presumption of innocence, the case underscores how AI can amplify traditional fraud tactics, making it harder for victims to detect deception.
What residents can do
- Verify any unexpected request for money or sensitive information by contacting the person or organization through a known, trusted channel.
- Use multi‑factor authentication on accounts that handle financial transactions.
- Be skeptical of unsolicited links or requests to download files, especially if they claim to recover lost funds.
- Attend local education events, such as the Garland police briefing, to stay informed about emerging threats.
By combining federal executive action, state legislation and community outreach, Texas and the nation are building a layered defense against AI‑enabled impersonation scams.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
