Scammers use AI voices to impersonate FPL representatives

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

Scammers are using artificial intelligence to create realistic voices that impersonate Florida Power & Light representatives, tricking customers into making payments or providing personal information.

"We've seen a rise in scams like this where they're using very realistic-sounding AI voices to impersonate an FPL representative," said Shelley Ragsdale, an FPL representative.

Customers have reported receiving calls disguised as FPL, but no one is actually on the other end of the line.

"I just don't pick up calls or call people back like that unless I actually know who it is. Or I have emails from legit businesses," said Amaya, a Fort Myers resident.

Marsheena Myrie, also from Fort Myers, said, "If you ever receive a call that sounds off the chart, the next step you would do is to call the company."

Ragsdale explained the intent behind these calls.

"These calls are designed to pressure customers to make payments or to act, or to provide personal information," she said.

FPL emphasized that it will never call customers demanding immediate payment.

"Anytime something feels off or you feel pressure, hang up. Call FPL to verify," Ragsdale said.

FPL reminds customers to hang up if they receive suspicious calls and to contact the number listed on their bill to confirm the legitimacy of any communication.

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