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Trio used AI to impersonate corporate execs, defrauding companies of nearly $130 million: DOJ
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Key Points:
- Three individuals—Jacob Soall, Sharon Hazan, and Guy Sheetrit—face charges for allegedly using AI to impersonate corporate executives and lawyers, defrauding companies of nearly $130 million, according to federal prosecutors in Manhattan.
- The scheme, active from July 2024 to February 2026, involved AI-generated voice and image mimicry to trick employees into wiring large sums of money to accounts controlled by the conspirators.
- Victims included hospital systems, banks, financial technology firms, and other companies across the U.S. and the U.K., with losses detailed in the indictment exceeding $129 million.
- The accused were arrested in Europe between June and September 2026 and are awaiting extradition to the U.S.; charges include conspiracy and money laundering with potential sentences up to 20 years.
- U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald highlighted the dual nature of AI technology, emphasizing its potential benefits while warning of its misuse for criminal activities; notably, Hazan has a prior conviction for conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
