Recently, during an episode of The Gilbert Arenas Show, three-time NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas expressed disbelief over Matt Barnes’ claims of falling victim to an AI-based extortion scheme. The podcast revealed that Barnes reportedly lost $61,000 due to manipulation involving advanced technology.
Matt Barnes’ Shocking AI Extortion Claims
Arenas reacted strongly to the news, saying, “Matt Barnes got finessed out of $61,000? By an AI snow bunny? No, y’all playing. What?! No, I don’t believe it.” This remark highlighted his incredulity about the situation.
During the podcast, co-host Josiah Johnson shared the details of Barnes’ claims, which involve sophisticated AI-generated content. Barnes alleged that a woman used artificial intelligence to create deepfake audio, video, and text messages that put him in a compromising position.
Details of the Extortion Scheme
- Barnes accuses a woman of threatening to leak manipulated content.
- He claims that the AI technology made him appear unfaithful to Anansa Sims, his then-fiancée.
- The extortion attempts began in July 2023, shortly after his split from Sims.
Barnes shared on Instagram his intention to file a lawsuit against gossip blogger Tasha K, who published AI-generated content portraying him as unfaithful. “I’m going to show you some receipts,” he stated, referencing his evidence against the claims.
Financial Implications and Ongoing Threats
According to Barnes, he continued to pay the alleged extortionist until September 2024, in hopes of reducing stress on Sims, who was pregnant at the time. He provided proof of payments amounting to $61,000, revealing the emotional toll of the situation.
The situation escalated when false audio and other materials were reportedly sent to Tasha K, leading to further sensational reports about Barnes’ personal life. “It’s bullshit,” he concluded, voicing his frustration over the misinformation circulating about him.
As of now, it appears Barnes has not yet filed his lawsuit against Tasha K, but he emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the need for accountability.
