SINGAPORE / EuroWire.IO / – INTERPOL initiated an outreach effort on Monday, October 19, to address the rising threats associated with crimes utilizing AI-produced or modified media to deceive individuals. The initiative showcases three brief videos, all generated through artificial intelligence, demonstrating how synthetic media, often called deepfakes, can mislead unsuspecting victims. The central message emphasizes to the public: “Wait. Validate. Don’t take the bait.”. This campaign targets both ordinary citizens and law enforcement agencies alike.
The visual scenarios include a criminal posing as a boss, the replication of a woman’s voice, and an online-fabricated romantic identity. INTERPOL highlighted that generative AI tools, along with large language models, are evolving rapidly, becoming more sophisticated daily. These technologies no longer demand advanced technical expertise or substantial financial investment. They are capable of creating highly realistic avatars capable of human-like communication, as well as reproducing a person’s face or voice from minimal online content.
According to INTERPOL, the general public’s awareness about the criminal use of deepfakes remains limited. Initially regarded mainly as threats to high-profile individuals, synthetic media crimes are now increasingly affecting private citizens through schemes such as investment fraud, impersonation, romance scams, sextortion, deepfake pornography, and disinformation campaigns. Scammers might, for example, initiate a video call pretending to be a coworker requesting a bank transfer, or contact a relative claiming to be in distress. Previous reports have also pointed out that criminal groups use AI to facilitate cybercrime and fraud activities.
Recognizable warning signals are fading
Toshinobu Yasuhira, head of the INTERPOL Innovation Centre, stated that “AI is erasing the tell-tale signs of a scam.” He explained that indicators like spelling errors, inconsistent branding, and poorly formatted content are quickly disappearing. Yasuhira emphasized that anyone, regardless of age, location, or sector, can be deceived. INTERPOL’s efforts are focused on equipping both law enforcement and the public with knowledge and tools to identify these threats before they cause harm. UNICEF has also separately linked children’s use of AI to learning and safety concerns.
INTERPOL pointed out that the ultimate goal of these scams is to steal money or sensitive personal data. Several warning signs were listed to alert the public. These include unsolicited contact from strangers or individuals claiming to be friends, relatives, or reputable organizations. Victims are often pressured to act immediately, citing personal emergencies or family crises. Scammers also manipulate fears, distress, or secrecy to prevent targets from seeking advice. Requests for payments via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards are additional indicators of fraud.
Use of safe words and two-factor authentication is recommended
INTERPOL also cautioned about rapidly intensifying online relationships, where declarations of love and emotional reliance are common. Targets might be encouraged to switch conversations away from official dating platforms to avoid detection and reporting mechanisms. The organization advised maintaining a cautious and skeptical attitude, even if the individual appears trustworthy. People should hang up on unsolicited calls and reach out through verified channels. Consulting others about suspicious situations is also advised.
INTERPOL urged families and close friends to agree on a secret word or question to verify identities during suspicious calls. It also recommended scrutinizing the online profiles of new contacts, ensuring that profile images are authentic and not taken from elsewhere. Enabling two-factor authentication across all online accounts is another security measure. This campaign is part of Project SynthWave PLUS, funded by the Government of Japan, which supports law enforcement efforts in Southeast Asia and beyond against the threats posed by synthetic media.