Police Warn Against ‘AI Homeless Man’ Prank Spreading On Social Media
Police have issued a public warning after a social media prank involving an “AI homeless man” caused panic among families and wasted emergency resources.
The bizarre trend, which has gone viral on TikTok and Snapchat, involves users sending AI-generated images to friends or parents. The photos show what appears to be an unknown man eating food, lying on a bed, or sleeping inside someone’s home — often paired with messages claiming he refuses to leave.
In one case, Dorset Police said they were contacted by an “extremely concerned parent” who believed a stranger had broken into their home while their daughter was alone. Officers were quickly dispatched, only to discover that the alarming report was based on a prank created using artificial intelligence.
Police Resources Strained By Fake Alerts
Authorities emphasized that such stunts not only cause unnecessary fear but also divert police resources away from genuine emergencies.
In a statement, Dorset Police said: “If you receive a message and pictures similar to the above antics from friends or family, please attempt to check it isn’t a prank before dialling 999.”
The force confirmed that valuable time and resources were used in responding to the false alarm — time that could have been critical for real incidents.
AI Technology And The Rise Of Digital Deception
The “AI homeless man” prank underscores the growing challenge of AI-generated misinformation on social platforms. Experts have warned that realistic synthetic imagery can easily mislead the public and create unnecessary panic.
With generative AI tools becoming more advanced and accessible, law enforcement agencies face increasing difficulties in distinguishing real threats from digital hoaxes.
Cybersecurity specialists are urging social media users to be cautious when sharing alarming images or stories online, particularly those depicting crime or danger. Verifying the authenticity of such content before reacting or contacting authorities is now seen as an essential digital responsibility.
Public Urged To Think Before Sharing
Police are encouraging parents, teenagers, and frequent social media users to discuss the dangers of participating in or spreading such pranks. What may seem like harmless humor online can have serious offline consequences, from wasting emergency services to causing genuine emotional distress.
Authorities are also working with social media companies to monitor and remove misleading content that could endanger public safety.
The “AI homeless man” incident serves as yet another reminder of how rapidly artificial intelligence can be misused — and how crucial it is for the public to stay vigilant in an age where reality can be digitally fabricated in seconds.
