SINGAPORE / EuroWire.IO / – INTERPOL unveiled a campaign aimed at increasing public understanding on Monday, October 19, emphasizing the rising threat of crimes involving AI-generated or AI-manipulated media used for scams. The initiative includes three brief videos, all created with artificial intelligence, illustrating how synthetic media, often called deepfakes, can deceive individuals. The main message encourages audiences to “Wait. Validate. Don’t take the bait.” This effort targets both ordinary citizens and law enforcement agencies.
These videos portray scenarios such as a criminal impersonating a boss, the cloning of a woman’s voice, and the creation of a fake romantic identity online. INTERPOL highlighted that generative AI tools and the large language models powering them are evolving rapidly. These technologies no longer require extensive technical knowledge or significant financial investment. They can produce highly realistic avatars capable of engaging in human-like conversations, as well as reproduce faces or voices of real people from minimal online content.
According to INTERPOL, public awareness about how deepfakes are exploited for criminal activities remains limited. Previously viewed mainly as a threat to public figures, synthetic media crimes now increasingly target ordinary individuals through scams involving investments, impersonations, romance frauds, sextortion, deepfake pornography, and disinformation. These scams may involve a fake video call from someone pretending to be a colleague requesting a bank transfer or a distress call from a relative. Reports have also warned that criminal groups use AI for cybercrime and fraud.
Indicators of deception are becoming less noticeable
Toshinobu Yasuhira, Director of the INTERPOL Innovation Centre, stated that “AI is erasing the tell-tale signs of a scam.” He explained that spelling errors, inconsistent branding, and poor formatting are quickly disappearing as warning signals. Anyone can fall prey, regardless of age, location, or background, Yasuhira emphasized. INTERPOL’s efforts aim to equip police and the public with knowledge and tools to identify these threats early. UNICEF has also linked children’s use of AI to learning and safety concerns.
The organization pointed out that these scams are primarily designed to steal money or personal data. They list several red flags, such as unsolicited contact from strangers or individuals claiming to be friends, relatives, or trusted entities. Victims are often pressured to act swiftly, citing a personal crisis or emergency. Scammers also leverage fear, distress, or secrecy to prevent targets from seeking advice. Common warning signs include requests for payments via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.
Precautionary measures include safe words and two-factor authentication
INTERPOL also issued warnings about online relationships that escalate quickly, with declarations of love and emotional dependence. Targets might be urged to shift conversations away from official dating sites to avoid detection. The agency recommends remaining calm and skeptical, even if you believe you are talking to someone you trust. It advises hanging up on unanticipated calls and reaching out through verified channels. Discussing suspicious situations with others is also encouraged.
Families and friends are advised to agree on a safe word or secret question for verifying identities during suspicious calls. It’s also important to verify the online profiles of new contacts and ensure that profile photos aren’t stolen from elsewhere. Activating two-factor authentication on all online accounts is highly recommended. This campaign is part of Project SynthWave PLUS, financed by the Government of Japan, which supports law enforcement efforts in Southeast Asia and beyond against threats posed by synthetic media.