Guerrero proposes prison sentences for AI voice cloning fraud

Legislators in Guerrero, Mexico, have proposed reforms to the state Penal Code to criminalize the use of artificial intelligence for identity theft and voice cloning. The initiative, presented by Deputy Gladis Cortés Genchí of the Green Ecological Party of Mexico, aims to address new security challenges posed by organized crime.

Criminal groups are reportedly using voice synthesis algorithms and biometric cloning to impersonate individuals. These tools allow criminals to extract voice fragments from social media videos, phone calls, or audio notes to deceive victims. This method is frequently used in extortion, financial fraud, and fake kidnapping scams, where criminals exploit emotional family ties to pressure victims into making payments.

The proposal seeks to amend Article 240 Bis of the Guerrero Penal Code, establishing prison sentences ranging from two to eight years, along with fines and mandatory restitution for damages caused by such technological identity usurpation.