Deep Fake Defense 101: Learn How to Stop the Spread of Deceptive Videos

In recent times, video calls have become a popular way for people to connect with their loved ones or colleagues across the globe. However, it's important to be cautious during video calls, as advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), have made it easier for fraudsters to deceive unsuspecting individuals.

A case in point is an incident in northern China where a man fell victim to an AI-driven video call scam involving deepfake technology. Using AI-powered face-swapping, the scammer posed as the victim's close friend during the call and convinced him to transfer a significant amount of money. The victim realized he had been duped when his real friend expressed no knowledge of the call. Fortunately, local police were able to recover most of the stolen money and are actively working to trace the remaining amount.

To combat the growing threat of AI-driven scams, China has implemented new rules to provide legal protection for victims and has been tightening its scrutiny of such technology.

Now the question arises, how can one spot a fake video call? Here are some signs to watch out for:

Video quality: Fake videos often have poor quality. Look for watermarks or other indications that the video is sourced online.

Contact information: Verify if the caller is on your contact list and if the displayed name matches the contact information you have for that person.

Video sizing: Pay attention to any distortion in the video proportions, as fake video calls may require resizing to fit the webcam window.

Given the rise of AI-based scams in India, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and exercise caution during video and voice calls. A study revealed that India has the highest number of victims, with 83% of Indians falling prey to fraudulent activities.

Deepfake technology has become a concern in recent years. It involves the use of AI to create realistic yet fake videos or images by collecting and mimicking visual and audio data of the target individual, often obtained from publicly available sources like social media.

In summary, staying alert and being aware of the signs of a fake video call can help protect individuals from falling victim to AI-driven scams.