Police warn of AI-generated misinformation spreading about missing Calgary boy Parker
Calgary police are asking the public to exercise caution about artificial intelligence content, including false images and unverified sightings claims.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
Calgary police have issued a warning about artificial intelligence-generated content spreading online that is interfering with the search for 11-year-old Parker, who has been missing since Thursday, July 16.
In a social media statement Monday, police said AI-generated, altered, and unverified images, videos, and claims about Parker's whereabouts are circulating online. "At this time, we ask the public to exercise caution when viewing or sharing this content," police said. "AI-generated, altered and unverified images and videos can create confusion, spread misinformation and divert investigative resources away from credible leads that may assist in locating Parker."
Police confirmed that all appropriate images and updates will be shared directly through official Calgary Police Service channels. They are asking the public to report any altered images, AI-generated content, or unconfirmed reports about Parker rather than share them further.
Official CCTV and dashcam footage of Parker can be submitted to police at https://cps.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/ca26318270.
The facts
How old is Parker and when did he go missing?
Parker is 11 years old and has been missing since Thursday, July 16, 2026.
What kind of misinformation is Calgary police warning about?
Calgary police are warning about AI-generated, altered, and unverified images, videos, and claims about Parker's whereabouts circulating online that can create confusion and divert investigative resources away from credible leads.
Where should the public report AI-generated content or unconfirmed reports about Parker?
The public should report any altered images, AI-generated content, or unconfirmed reports about Parker to Calgary Police Service rather than sharing them further.
