AI-generated voices mimicking Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg were discovered on crosswalk audio systems in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Redwood City, California. The apparent hack replaced standard pedestrian warnings with satirical messages.
The incident, affecting at least 12 crosswalks, was noticed on April 12, 2025. City officials disabled the voice announcement feature pending investigation. Videos posted on social media show examples of the AI-generated voice messages, filled with sarcastic and self-deprecating comments.
Authorities haven't identified suspects or confirmed the method used to execute the hack. While the motive remains unclear, the timing and content suggest a deliberate attempt to satirize Musk and Zuckerberg.
The incident raises concerns about the security of public infrastructure and the potential misuse of AI voice technology. The satirical nature of the messages highlights public perception of the two tech executives, specifically their recent interactions with former President Trump.