AI Deepfake Scams: How to Detect Digital Deception
- TrainMyParent.com
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 24
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, so do the tactics of scammers. One of the most alarming developments in recent years is the rise of AI-generated deepfake scams, a form of digital deception where synthetic media, such as fake videos, audio, or images, is used to impersonate real people. These scams can target anyone, and are becoming increasingly difficult to detect.
Whether it’s a fake video call from a family member, a cloned voice pleading for money, or a realistic-looking video of a company CEO requesting urgent action, deepfake scams are shaking trust in what we see and hear online. Here's what you need to know to spot deepfakes and protect your family from becoming victims.
What Are Deepfake Scams?
Deepfakes are pictures, videos, or audio, created using AI algorithms that mimic someone’s face, voice, or mannerisms with shocking realism. Scammers use these tools to trick people into believing they are interacting with a trusted person—often to steal money, access personal information, or manipulate decisions. Some examples of Deepfake Scams include:
A fake voice call from a loved one asking for emergency money.
A video of a politician with a call to action, request for money, or making a false claim
Celebrity endorsement scams using fake videos to promote bogus products.
Fake job interviews or recruitment videos using AI to mimic real company reps.
A video of a business executive instructing staff to wire funds or reveal confidential data.
How to Detect AI-Generated Deepfakes
As deepfake technology improves, identifying them can be tough, but not impossible. Look out for these signs:
In Video Deepfakes:
1. Unnatural facial movements: Blinking, lip syncing, or eye direction may seem off.
2. Strange lighting: Shadows may not align correctly with the face or surroundings.
3. Mismatched audio: The tone or emotion in the voice may not match facial expressions.
4. Glitches or artifacts: Blurry edges, flickering, or distorted facial features or frames.
5. Lack of interaction: The person avoids turning their head or showing emotion naturally.
In Voice Deepfakes:
1. Monotone or robotic tone: Even if it sounds real, the speech may lack natural cadence.
2. Odd background noise: Or, complete silence, which can be a red flag.
3. Generic responses: The voice may avoid detailed questions or repeat phrases awkwardly.
Use Common Sense:
Did the message come at an unusual time or through an unexpected channel?
Are they asking for money, sensitive information, or urgent action?
Is the message emotionally manipulative or too urgent to verify?
If something feels *off*, trust your instincts and verify before acting.
How to Protect Your Family from Deepfake Scams
The American Bankers Association has a free infographic downloadable at https://www.aba.com/news-research/analysis-guides/deepfake-media-scams that can help educate the public. Here are proactive steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones:
A. Establish a Family Verification Code: Create a secret word or phrase that only your family knows. If someone calls or messages asking for help, you can verify it’s truly them by asking for the code.
B: Educate Your Family: Talk about deepfakes, especially with kids and elderly family members who may not be aware. Show examples of fake videos or calls so they know what to look for.
C: Limit Public Sharing: Scammers often harvest video or audio from social media. Set profiles to private and limit the amount of video/audio content you share publicly.
D. Verify Before You Act: Don’t send money or information based on a voice or video alone. If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and call the person back on a known number. Or, contact someone else who may be with them to confirm their status.
E. Use Technology to Fight Technology: Some tools and apps, such as Intel FakeCatcher and Microsoft Video Authenticator, can help detect deepfakes or verify videos. Also, keep antivirus software updated to block malicious links or downloads.
F. Report Scams Immediately: If you or a loved one receives a deepfake scam, report it to your local authorities and the FBI at IC3.gov, and notify the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Also, let other friends and family members know to help them avoid the same trap.
Deepfakes are more than a tech curiosity. They are a growing threat. But awareness is your best defense. By learning to recognize deepfake red flags and having safety protocols in place, you can protect your family from emotional and financial harm.
In a world where seeing and hearing is no longer believing, trust must be verified and not assumed. Stay cautious, stay informed, and help others do the same.
