Police are now warning the public to be careful when sending money and to watch out for AI-generated photos.
The woman presented to the front counter at the Dunedin Central Police Station on Saturday seeking advice, Sergeant Matt Lee, of Dunedin, said.
She had received a document "about a court release for an American general".
Police spoke to her about the legitimacy of the document and it was revealed the woman had been purchasing vouchers and sending them to the supposed general, as well as Bitcoin and bank transfers.
"She initially didn't want to accept the fact that she's been scammed, but later told police it's been ongoing for five years.
"She believes she's sent potentially around $800,000."
The woman believed supposed general had been in New Zealand.
She showed police photos that appeared to show him pictured with a South Island mayor at a South Island hospital, Sgt Lee said.
But police determined those had been photoshopped or made with AI.
Sgt Lee urged people to seek advice from police or trusted family members before sending money to anybody.
He also warned people to be mindful of doctored photos that might appear real, given how good AI was getting.
"Be mindful of anything you're receiving online."
