In India, WhatsApp is used by millions of users for different kinds of needs. The platform is evolving, which means that the threats associated with it are also increasing. Scams on WhatsApp can take various shapes.
The most recent version now incorporates AI using deepfake videos. Scammers utilize deep fake video calls to dupe people into paying for fictitious emergencies.
A 72-year-old man in Kerala who was reportedly duped of Rs 40,000 using a convincingly fake video call from WhatsApp was the scam’s first victim. According to media reports, PS Radhakrishnan spoke to the police in Kozhikode City after receiving a text message from a claimed buddy. The police then filed a FIR. The victim additionally got the same person also called the victim over WhatsApp and asked for urgent money for a medical emergency.
The victim asked the supposed friend to make a video call on his number because he wasn’t sure who was on the other end of the line. According to the police report, the victim did get a call from the con artist that lasted just 30 seconds and allowed him to see a close-up of his face.
The victim mentioned that the call went smoothly and that he felt satisfied with the caller’s identity. He then used UPI and transferred Rs 40,000 to his account, and up to that point, he had no suspicions of impropriety. However, the con artist decided to try his luck again and asked for money once more. when Radhakrishnan began to have his doubts.
He then decide to call the actual person who seemed to be calling him and asking for money. To his surprise, the friend denied asking him or asking for money in any way. At this point, the victim realized he had been duped and that a person had obtained money with his consent.
AI Deepfake Attacks Via WhatsApp: A Definite Worry
The most sinister application of AI is deep fake, and it is clear from this instance that scammers are now using this technology to dupe people into sending money. Deep fakes are simple to make using free online tools, allowing you to build the faces of your friends or family members and use them to fool people into giving you money by pretending to have a medical emergency. Similar scams also involve using a well-known person’s photo—taken from their social media account—and asking for money from people on their contact list. These kinds of incidents are all too common these days, but they may be completely avoidable if the user is proactive and aware of how to deal with such attacks.
WhatsApp DeepFake Video Scam: How To Avoid Falling Prey
The deep fake video scam may be avoided, just like every other internet fraud these days. The guidelines below will help you remember the basics and keep an eye on the person you are messaging or talking to.
Never engage in chat with anyone before knowing their identification
Always give out your phone number to anyone who calls you with a money request.
It’s best to phone that person right away and ask if they have made any requests if you see their profile photo on WhatsApp and they appear to be asking for money.
Always verify the account or mobile phone to which you are sending money before sending it over UPI.
