NASSAU, BAHAMAS- National Security Minister Wayne Munroe says that the government is working on a national strategy to govern the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in The Bahamas, in response to the growing threat of AI-generated fraud.
This strategy includes introducing new laws to criminalize the malicious use of AI, enhancing digital identity protections, and increasing cybersecurity capacity within law enforcement agencies. “We’re also investing in training for government officials and frontline agencies to spot signs of AI manipulation in real time,” Munroe added during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister, highlighting the government’s proactive approach to countering the rising dangers posed by digital fraud.
Munroe’s remarks come amidst a sharp increase in AI-generated content, particularly deepfake videos and audio clips, which have been used to impersonate high-profile public figures like the Prime Minister, Governor General, and Governor of the Central Bank. These fake videos, often promoting fraudulent investment schemes, have been designed to deceive unsuspecting Bahamians into making financial investments in non-existent or high-risk ventures, primarily involving cryptocurrency or high-yield returns.
The minister warned that these AI-generated scams are far from harmless. “Creating or distributing AI-generated deepfakes that impersonate others for the purpose of deception is illegal,” Munroe emphasized. “It violates the laws on fraud, identity theft, and public mischief. We are currently preparing legislative updates that specifically address this new threat under the criminal code, and we will not hesitate to act.”
Munroe noted that the government is not only focused on enforcement but is also laying the groundwork for comprehensive legal measures to protect the public. “The Royal Bahamas Police Force through its Cybercrime Unit is actively investigating all reported cases of AI-generated fraud and digital scams,” he stated. “The police can only investigate what you report to them.”
He “added: “If you receive a message, a video, or a voice note that claims to come from a senior official, urging you to invest money or sign up for a scheme, do not act on it,” Munroe advised the public. “Do not forward it to your friends and family. Do not deposit money. Simply do not trust it.”
Munroe also emphasized the importance of public vigilance. He urged Bahamians to be more cautious, stating that they should “stop, question it, and seek to verify it.” The minister encouraged people to check official government platforms or even pick up the phone and call trusted sources, such as the Central Bank or the Office of the Prime Minister, if they receive suspicious messages.
Beyond enforcement, the government is also working on a national strategy for the responsible use of AI across various sectors. This includes enhancing digital identity protections, which will be crucial in safeguarding citizens from digital impersonation and fraud. “We are looking at creating a legislative framework that ensures the responsible use of AI in our country,” Munroe noted. “This will not only address the malicious use of AI but also strengthen our cybersecurity and digital identity safeguards.”
The government’s strategy also involves collaboration with international partners, including tech platforms and regional law enforcement agencies, to trace and disrupt AI-generated fraud on a global scale. “Where criminal conduct is found, whether locally or internationally, we will pursue prosecution to the fullest extent of the law,” Munroe said.
Furthermore, the government is focused on raising public awareness about these new types of scams. Munroe called on the press to play a critical role in educating the public on how to identify and avoid AI-generated fraud. “In an era of misinformation and AI deception, the credibility of journalism has never been more important,” he said. “You are the filter through which many people receive and make sense of the world, and that brings much responsibility.”
The press was urged to verify information before sharing it and to challenge falsehoods. “If you see a deepfake making the rounds, you should be the first to inform your audience that it is a scam,” Munroe urged the media. “We are asking you to partner with us in delivering public service announcements and safety tips in your newspapers, on radio, and on your digital platforms.”
“The issue cannot be solved by the government alone,” Munroe stated. “It requires shared responsibility. Together, we can make it harder for fraudsters to succeed.”
