AI 'Homeless Man' Prank in China Triggers Police Response

A new social media trend in China featuring AI-generated images of "homeless men breaking into homes" has sparked widespread concern — and police warnings — after one prank triggered an emergency response.

A woman in Anhui Province used an AI tool to create a lifelike image of a vagrant entering her home on the night of October 17, local media reported. She sent it to her husband, who was out at dinner, intending to "test his reaction." Believing the photo to be real, he immediately called the police.

Local police rushed to the scene, only to discover it was a false alarm. Police later reminded the woman that using AI-generated images to cause panic and prompt emergency responses wastes public resources.

Authorities say similar incidents have been reported across the country. In some cases, AI-generated pranks have led to full-scale searches or family members rushing home in fear. Police have warned that such acts could cross legal lines and result in detention, fines, or even criminal charges, if they lead to serious consequences.

Under China's Public Security Administration Punishments Law, filing a false police report can result in five to 10 days of detention and a fine of up to 500 yuan (US$70.2).

If the AI-generated content spreads widely and causes public panic, it may fall under the Criminal Law's provision against "fabricating and spreading false information," which carries a prison sentence of up to five years.