Deepfake Video Scams
डीपफेक वीडियो स्कैम
INDIA — By BharatSecure Threat Intelligence Team ·
Verdict: Dangerous | Risk Score: 10/10 | Severity: MEDIUM
Category: Phishing
How Deepfake Video Scams Works
- Create deepfake videos of trusted officials or celebrities
- Use video calls to appear authentic
- Coerce victims into making payments or sharing sensitive data
How This Scam Works — Detailed Explanation
Deepfake Video Scams have emerged as a dangerous new threat in India’s digital landscape. Scammers use advanced AI technology to create highly realistic videos that mimic the faces and voices of trusted individuals such as family members, company bosses, or well-known personalities. These fake videos are then used during video calls on platforms like WhatsApp, Zoom, or Google Meet to trick victims into believing they are talking to someone familiar. The scammers use these deepfake videos to urgently request money transfers through UPI apps or mobile banking, claiming emergency needs or confidential business transfers.
The scam usually begins with the attacker gathering enough personal information about the target through social media, leaked data, or previous phishing attempts. They then craft a deepfake video that perfectly matches the mannerisms and voice of the person they are impersonating. When the scammer calls, the victim sees a clear, high-quality video which looks genuine, creating a strong sense of trust. The deepfake AI also enables the scammer to respond quickly, adapting their script based on the victim’s replies to maintain the illusion of authenticity.
Once the victim is convinced, the scammer pushes for immediate transfer of funds, often using UPI or mobile banking apps popular in India like Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm. The request is usually urgent and made during odd hours, with the scammer warning of risks or emergencies that supposedly require instant payment. Many victims, fearing for their loved ones or business relationships, comply without verifying. Unfortunately, once the money is sent, it’s nearly impossible to recover.
Victims often only realize they have been scammed after trying to contact the real person or when the transaction is flagged by their bank. These scams can target wealthy individuals, professionals, or any Indian citizen with access to digital payment systems. The use of deepfake technology makes detection harder, putting increased importance on awareness and verification before transferring funds or sharing sensitive information like Aadhaar numbers or OTPs during such video calls.
Who Does Deepfake Video Scams Target?
Wealthy individuals, professionals
Red Flags — How to Identify Deepfake Video Scams
- Video calls with unusually perfect video quality
- Urgent fund requests from familiar faces
- Requests during odd hours or via unofficial channels
What To Do If You Encounter Deepfake Video Scams
- Verify the caller’s identity by calling them back on a known number before transferring funds.
- Immediately report suspicious video calls or payment requests to your bank or UPI app support.
- Avoid sharing Aadhaar details or OTPs during video calls, no matter who asks for them.
- Call the police helpline 1930 or local cybercrime cell if you suspect a deepfake scam attempt.
- Block and report the scammer’s contact on platforms like WhatsApp to prevent further contact.
How to Report Deepfake Video Scams in India
- Call 1930 — National Cyber Crime Helpline (24x7)
- File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in
- Contact your bank immediately if money was lost
- Call RBI helpline: 14440 for banking fraud
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Deepfake Video Scams?
- Dangerous: Deepfake Video Scams. AI-created deepfake videos of trusted figures used in video calls to coerce wealthy victims into making fraudulent payments.
- How does Deepfake Video Scams work?
- Create deepfake videos of trusted officials or celebrities Use video calls to appear authentic Coerce victims into making payments or sharing sensitive data
- How to protect yourself from Deepfake Video Scams?
- Verify the caller’s identity by calling them back on a known number before transferring funds. Immediately report suspicious video calls or payment requests to your bank or UPI app support. Avoid sharing Aadhaar details or OTPs during video calls, no matter who asks for them. Call the police helpline 1930 or local cybercrime cell if you suspect a deepfake scam attempt.
- How to report Deepfake Video Scams in India?
- Report to cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline). You can also contact your local police station's cyber cell.
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