Cybercriminals use deepfakes for fraud

At the beginning of the year, Kaspersky experts warned that cybercriminals could continue to exploit artificial intelligence (AI) tools to create more persuasive and accessible deceptive content, increasing the risks associated with deepfakes. This technology consists of images, videos and even audio and texts, modified to present information differently from the original,
for example, for one person to imitate another. Recently, in different countries there are various celebrity deepfake videos have been circulating advertise fake games of chance with the aim of stealing money victims. In other countries like Mexicopromoted AI-manipulated videos promoting “miracle products” that are actually scams.

Since it is Most Latin Americans do not know what a deepfake is (69%) and does not know how to recognize content of this type (67%), in addition to the fact that it is a threat that will constantly appear this year, Kaspersky explains how it does it and shares recommendations so that users can recognize fake content.

Like using AI is becoming more widespread and accessible, andThe risk of becoming a victim of deepfakes is increasing, since, supported by this technology, fraudsters can easily extract videos and images of their potential targets in order to change them. Kaspersky experts have discovered that those looking for fake media content often turn to the Darknet, where there is significant demand for this type of content. Users are actively looking for people who can make fake videos for them and, like these cases, ask them to be for specific targets, such as celebrities or political figures.

This is to use them later for purposes malicious, such as blackmail, revenge, harassment or committing financial fraud. Recent deepfakes, for example, which are spreading on social networks, aim to steal users’ money, convincing them that they will invest in recognized institutions and get big returns or buy products that will help them improve their health,
exploiting the economic need and better quality of life of people, presenting them with a greater risk.

We are facing a scenario of advanced digital manipulation that compromises the truth and requires us all to be aware of this phenomenon. In a world where the line between reality and digital fiction is increasingly blurred, we must consume digital content responsibly, be careful about what we read and listen to, and avoid promoting misinformation by sharing fake news, videos and audio,” comment Isabel Manjarrez, security researcher in Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis team. “In today’s world, it is very important not to believe everything you read and hear on the Internet,” he said.

Identifying a deepfake can be complicated, since Digital manipulation techniques are constantly evolving. However, Kaspersky recommends a few tips for discovering this type of content:
● Anomalies of the face and body. Look for inconsistencies in facial movements, expressions, or body movements that seem strange or unnatural. It detects irregularities in the eyes, mouth or other parts of the face.
● Coordination and facial expressions. Make sure the words match correctly lip movements and that facial expressions are appropriate to the context of the video.
● Lighting and shading. Assess whether the lighting the face matches the environment. Inconsistenciesare lighting may indicate unauthorized handling.
● Awareness and education. Be aware of the existence of deepfakes and educate yourself about digital manipulation technologies. The more aware you are, the better you will be able to spot a potential scam.
● Beware of fake websites. If you have questions about Mr website or app, do not enter your information or make payments. Visit the official website as well as social networks directly
institutions or public persons for information verification.

● Use solutions like Kaspersky Premium, that protect from everything types of threats, known and unknown when browsing the Internet, on computers and mobile devices.