Sheriff’s Office Warns of a TikTok Trend & Prank Involving AI Generated “Homeless Man”

Cortland County Sheriff Mark Helms is warning the public of an ongoing TikTok trend and prank that involved an AI generated “Homeless Man.” Sheriff Helms this prank has resulted in law enforcement being called to homes. The prank is where the image of a “homeless man” is superimposed inside someone’s house with the images then sent to a family member.

The prank then shows text messages of the images of the “homeless man” at various locations inside the residence with the recipient of the images believing them to be legitimate and raising concern. This concern eventually leads to law enforcement being called to the residence where law enforcement learns no one is inside the home.

“This dangerous trend should not be followed and results in increased danger to the community, law enforcement and wasted resources, and could result in citation or other penalties.” Sheriff Helms says.

Incidents have been reported nationwide and in New York State.