Texas Company Identified as Source of AI-generated Deepfake Biden Robocalls
New Hampshire’s Department of Justice announced that it has uncovered the source behind the fraudulent Biden AI robocalls that targeted residents last month. The investigation led to Life Corporation, a Texas-based company owned by Walter Monk.
A cease-and-desist order has been issued against Life Corporation, accusing the company of violating laws against voter suppression by disseminating misleading information to deter voters.
The robocalls, received by thousands of New Hampshire residents, falsely advised against voting in the primary election, claiming votes needed to be “saved” for the general election in November. These calls featured AI-generated deepfake audio mimicking President Joe Biden’s voice, further adding to their deceptive nature. Additionally, the caller ID was spoofed to appear as a former New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair’s number.
Lingo Telecom, also based in Texas, has been implicated for facilitating the robocalls on its networks. As a result, it has received a cease-and-desist order and ceased services to Life Corporation.
Both companies have been issued documentation preservation notices and subpoenas as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
Attorney General John Formella emphasized the potential threat posed by AI-generated recordings in undermining the democratic election process. He stressed the collaboration between law enforcement, regulatory agencies, and industry in monitoring and investigating such malicious activities.
This isn’t the first legal issue for Life Corporation, as it previously faced citations from the Federal Communications Commission in 2003 for unsolicited advertising calls.
