Imagine getting a WhatsApp video call from a familiar face, someone you used to work with. They ask for your help in a crisis, maybe money for a sick relative. Sounds like a normal situation, right? Well, what if that familiar face was actually a fake, created using powerful new technology called a deepfake?
This is exactly what happened to a man in Kerala, India. Scammers used deepfake technology to impersonate his former colleague on a WhatsApp video call. The deepfake mimicked the colleague’s appearance and voice so convincingly that the man was fooled into sending Rs 40,000 (around $500 USD) to help with a fake medical emergency.
What are Deepfakes?
Deepfakes are a type of artificial intelligence (AI) that can be used to create realistic videos or audio recordings of people saying or doing things they never did. Deepfakes can be very convincing, making it difficult to tell the real from the fake.
How to Spot a Deepfake Scam?
While deepfakes are getting more sophisticated, there are still some red flags to watch out for:
- Unexpected Calls or Messages: Scammers often initiate contact through unknown numbers. Be wary of sudden requests for money, especially from people you haven’t spoken to in a while.
- Suspicious Urgency: Scammers will often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly before you have a chance to think twice.
- Poor Video Quality: Deepfakes can sometimes be glitchy or have unnatural movements. Look for inconsistencies in the video call.
- Verify Information: If someone asks for money, don’t send it right away. Try contacting the person you think you’re speaking to through a trusted channel, like their saved phone number, to confirm the request.
Stay Safe From Such Scams
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Video Calls: Don’t feel obligated to answer calls from unknown numbers.
- Don’t Rush into Sending Money: If someone asks for money urgently, take a step back and verify the situation before sending anything.
- Use Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, making it harder for scammers to access your money.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you think you’ve been targeted by a deepfake scam, report it to the authorities and the platform you were using (WhatsApp in this case).
Deepfakes are a growing threat, but by being aware of how they work and the red flags to watch out for, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. Stay safe and stay informed!