A Florida mother is sounding the alarm after experiencing what she described as a terrifying incident involving an artificial intelligence-driven FaceTime call that appeared to come from her daughter’s phone. Erika Anderson, a resident of Jacksonville, has gained significant attention on social media following her account of the unsettling situation, which she shared on TikTok.
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According to Anderson, she received a FaceTime call from the number belonging to her 17-year-old daughter, who was at school at the time. In her TikTok video, which has amassed nearly 20 million views, Anderson recounted the chilling moment. “I just had something so scary just happen to me,” she said, explaining that the voice on the other end claimed, “Hey, Mommy, I’m sick. Can you open the door?”
Anderson recognised that something was off given that her daughter was not home. “I take her to school. I pick her up,” she clarified, underscoring their daily routine. This instinct led her to investigate further, prompting her to review her home security footage, which revealed that no one was present at their door.
In an attempt to confirm the identity of the person on the call, Anderson asked questions that only her daughter would know the answers to, such as their recent dinner. However, the AI-generated voice replied dismissively, “Why [are] you asking me all these crazy questions? Can you just open the door?” Disturbed by the exchange, Anderson disconnected the call only to discover the interaction had not appeared in her call logs.
After the encounter, Anderson reached out to her daughter’s school and confirmed with her child that she had not attempted to FaceTime. “It freaked me out so bad,” Anderson remarked, acknowledging her concerns upon realising the caller was not her daughter despite their striking resemblance in voice and mannerisms.
The alarming episode has prompted Anderson to take additional measures to enhance her family’s safety. “I contacted local police,” she shared, expressing her bewilderment about how such a call could occur. Anderson has since implemented new security protocols, including establishing code words for her family to use in emergencies, adjusting the settings on their home alarm system, and repositioning existing security cameras. Furthermore, she has added two new cameras for added peace of mind.
Numerous viewers of Anderson’s TikTok have expressed their fears, with some sharing their own experiences of similar AI-driven calls. One commenter expressed concern for vulnerable populations, stating, “I’m so afraid for the elderly.” Another remarked on the seriousness of the issue, saying, “AI FaceTime calls are very real and need to be taken seriously.”
As technology continues to evolve, incidents like Anderson’s serve as a stark reminder of its potential misuse. The implications of AI-generated impersonations raise serious concerns about privacy and safety, especially for individuals who might be more susceptible, such as the elderly.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has been contacted regarding the incident, though no immediate response has been received. As Anderson’s story circulates widely, it highlights the growing urgency for awareness and education about the risks posed by advanced technology.
In a world increasingly reliant on technology, the need for vigilance and preventive measures is paramount. Anderson’s experience has resonated with many, sparking discussions about the implications of such incidents and the steps families can take to protect themselves in this digital age.