SAF NATIONAL AI THREAT CENTER

AI-Generated Profile Photos Enable Large-Scale Romance Scams

HIGHRomance Scams

Global

Published: November 27, 2025

Source: Better Business Bureau

Threat Overview

Criminal networks are using AI-generated photographs of non-existent people to create convincing fake profiles on dating apps and social media, facilitating romance scams.

A disturbing trend in online romance scams involves the use of AI-generated photographs that depict realistic but entirely fictional people. These images, created using generative adversarial networks (GANs) and similar AI technologies, are indistinguishable from real photographs to the untrained eye. Scammers create elaborate fake profiles using these AI-generated images, often claiming to be military personnel stationed overseas, successful professionals, or attractive singles looking for love. The AI-generated photos pass casual scrutiny and even reverse image searches, since they don't exist anywhere else on the internet. Victims develop emotional connections with these fake personas over weeks or months before the scammer requests money for various emergencies: medical bills, travel expenses, business investments, or family crises. The Better Business Bureau reports that romance scam victims lost a median of $2,500 in 2023, with many losing significantly more. Security researchers have identified criminal networks operating hundreds of fake profiles simultaneously, using AI not only to generate profile photos but also to craft personalized messages and maintain multiple romantic relationships at scale. The automation and sophistication of these operations represent a significant escalation in romance scam capabilities.

Threat Indicators

•A disturbing trend in online romance scams involves the use of AI-generated photographs that depict realistic but entirely fictional people.
•These images, created using generative adversarial networks (GANs) and similar AI technologies, are indistinguishable from real photographs to the untrained eye.
•Scammers create elaborate fake profiles using these AI-generated images, often claiming to be military personnel stationed overseas, successful professionals, or attractive singles looking for love.
•The AI-generated photos pass casual scrutiny and even reverse image searches, since they don't exist anywhere else on the internet.
•Victims develop emotional connections with these fake personas over weeks or months before the scammer requests money for various emergencies: medical bills, travel expenses, business investments, or family crises.

Recommended Actions

Verify all urgent requests through independent, trusted communication channels
Never share sensitive personal or financial information without verification
Enable multi-factor authentication on all important accounts
Document suspicious communications and report to appropriate authorities
Contact law enforcement immediately if you believe you've been targeted

SAF Advisory

This briefing is part of the SAF National AI Threat Center public protection initiative. StopAiFraud.com provides these threat briefings to help citizens, businesses, and government agencies stay informed about emerging AI-powered fraud schemes.