JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KFVS) - The Missouri State Highway Patrol is warning residents about a scam in which criminals use online chat platforms and an AI-generated document to pressure victims into paying bogus fees using gift cards.

The patrol's Division of Drug and Crime Control said it has seen a growing number of financial fraud cases reported across Missouri and nationwide, with victims suffering significant losses.

In a recent investigation, officials said suspects built a relationship with a victim through a social media chat platform, communicating repeatedly over time to make the relationship appear legitimate. The suspect later told the victim a parcel had been sent to the victim's home, officials said.

While the victim was waiting for the package, officials said the victim received a fraudulent WhatsApp notice that appeared to include an AI-generated document with the patrol's emblem. The notice claimed the parcel had been  seized for inspection  by a supposed  VIP Delivery Transit Program  and included instructions to pay a  processing fee  using gift cards.

The patrol said it does not have a  VIP Delivery Transit Program,  and anyone who receives a similar notice should report it to their local law enforcement agency.

 As a reminder, the Patrol will never solicit funds, demand fines, or request payment for any services provided,  the agency said in its warning. The patrol also said it will not use email, social media or chat platforms to contact or converse with individuals.

Officials said scammers often use the internet, social media, email, dating sites, text messages and phone calls to persuade victims to send money through cryptocurrency - such as Bitcoin - or other assets, including gift cards. The schemes are designed to look legitimate and frequently rely on creating urgency or fear, officials said.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized should notify local law enforcement or the State Highway Patrol as soon as possible, officials said.

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