A new wave of scams merging artificial intelligence, psychological manipulation, and the desperation of countless Cuban families to acquire solar panels or e-bikes is raising alarms on social media.
Content creator Luis Manresa, known as "Intermóvil," sounded the warning on social media, exposing a scam where criminals use photos of victims' homes to create fake images that appear convincingly real.
The scam unfolds when someone in Cuba reaches out to supposed sellers claiming to offer solar kits or e-bikes. These products have become highly sought after due to prolonged power outages and the ongoing fuel crisis.
During the alleged negotiation, the sellers ask for a photo of the house's roof—if solar panels are involved—or the facade in the case of an e-bike. This marks the initial step of the deceit.
How the Scam Operates
Fraudsters use artificial intelligence tools to craft manipulated images where the product seems to be installed or delivered.
"They place the e-bike at your doorstep or put the panels on your roof. The image looks so real, it's frightening," Manresa explained.
As they prepare the fake setup, the scammers try to isolate the victim in Cuba by asking them to switch their phone to airplane mode, disconnect for a few minutes, or even attempt to hijack their WhatsApp account.
While the victim is out of reach, the fraudsters send the fake photo to the family member abroad responsible for making the payment.
"Since you're out of contact, the scammer sends the fake photo to your relative, showing the e-bike at the door or the panels already set up," Manresa recounted.
Unable to verify the information with their relative in Cuba and convinced the delivery has been completed, the family member ends up transferring the money. The product never arrives.
Real-Life Consequences
According to the influencer, two incidents—one involving solar panels and another an e-bike—occurred just a day before he made his public alert.
"If someone asks for a photo of your home's front or roof, delete and block them immediately," he advised.
Comments on the video suggest that multiple people have already fallen victim to the scam.
One user shared that she uncovered the fraud because the AI-generated image showed a car with a wheel on a non-existent curb in front of her home. Another user reported losing $1,800. A third individual mentioned they were asked for $3,500 and were told to install an external app to coordinate the supposed delivery.
Among the comments, another variant known as the "bridge scam" was mentioned. In this scheme, a fraudulent intermediary connects a genuine seller with a real buyer unbeknownst to both parties, ultimately pocketing the transaction money.
Growing Digital Crime in Cuba
This new scam adds to the rising tide of digital crimes in Cuba. In April, the Banco de Crédito y Comercio (BANDEC) warned about WhatsApp account theft through verification codes. More recently, CUPET reported fake websites using its image to sell liquefied gas and solar panels. Cimex also issued similar warnings about identity theft attempts.
Cybersecurity experts have cautioned that elderly individuals are often the primary targets of these schemes due to their limited familiarity with digital tools and reliance on emigrant family members for purchases or payments from abroad.
In light of advancing technologies, Manresa issued a straightforward warning to Cubans both on the island and abroad:
"Technology evolves, and so do scammers. Forewarned is forearmed. No photos of your house, no airplane mode, nothing."
Understanding the AI-Driven Scams Targeting Cubans
How do fraudsters use AI in these scams?
Fraudsters employ AI tools to create manipulated images that falsely show products like e-bikes or solar panels installed at victims' homes. These images are used to deceive family members abroad into sending money.
What measures can Cubans take to avoid falling victim to these scams?
Cubans should be cautious of requests for photos of their homes and should immediately delete and block any suspicious contacts. They should also remain in communication with relatives abroad to verify any claims of deliveries.
Who are the primary targets of these scams?
Elderly individuals are often targeted due to their unfamiliarity with digital tools and reliance on family members abroad for financial transactions.