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FBI Investigates AI-Generated Bitcoin Ransom Notes for Guthrie

By Drooid · Oct 6, 2026, 7:04 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Former FBI agent Jennifer Coffindaffer reported receiving four bitcoin ransom notes demanding Nancy Guthrie’s release.
The notes contained AI-generated images of Guthrie and referenced a white smartwatch and a damaged backyard floodlight.
FBI Phoenix officials said some notes could be legitimate and remain under investigation.
A Tucson TV station received a February 2 note demanding $4 million in bitcoin, citing a smartwatch near Guthrie’s bed.

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Story summary

Former FBI agent Jennifer Coffindaffer reported receiving four bitcoin ransom notes demanding Nancy Guthrie’s release.
The notes contained AI-generated images of Guthrie and referenced a white smartwatch and a damaged backyard floodlight.
FBI Phoenix officials said some notes could be legitimate and remain under investigation.
A Tucson TV station received a February 2 note demanding $4 million in bitcoin, citing a smartwatch near Guthrie’s bed.