Congress deepfake video — Sep 2026

State officials have issued a warning regarding a viral scam targeting seniors that utilizes AI-generated videos to spread misinformation about property tax relief. The fraudulent content falsely asserts that Congress has established a new program designed to freeze or reduce property taxes for older homeowners.

What happened

The scam relies on synthesized video content to deceive viewers into believing in the existence of a non-existent government initiative. These videos instruct seniors to contact their local county assessor to request a 'Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request' or to file a specific document referred to as 'IRS Form 1098-SR.'

Authorities have clarified that neither the alleged tax freeze program nor the mentioned forms exist. The campaign appears to be a coordinated effort to solicit personal or financial information from vulnerable individuals. Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and to never provide sensitive data in response to unsolicited communications, including emails, texts, phone calls, or links found online.