The Dangers of AI Art and Deepfakes: Protect Yourself from Cyber Threats

As AI technology continues to evolve, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit it for malicious purposes. Two forms of AI-generated content—AI art and deepfakes—are especially concerning in the realm of cybersecurity. While these technologies are fascinating, they have the potential to be weaponized for scams and misinformation. In this blog, we will explore the risks associated with AI art and deepfakes, and provide essential tips to help you stay safe online.

What are AI Art and Deepfakes?

AI-generated art is created by an artificial intelligence algorithm that compiles existing artwork and images from the internet to produce new, unique visuals. Users provide prompts, and the AI blends elements from vast datasets of images to generate artistic creations. Deepfakes, on the other hand, take this concept a step further by manipulating real photographs or videos of individuals. This technology allows someone to appear as though they are saying or doing something they never actually did, often in an extremely convincing manner.

While both AI art and deepfakes can be harmless when used creatively, they have also been weaponized by cybercriminals for nefarious purposes.

The Risks: How Cybercriminals Exploit AI Art and Deepfakes

1. Deepfake Scams
   Cybercriminals can use deepfakes to impersonate public figures, celebrities, or even political leaders. By fabricating videos that seem authentic, scammers can endorse fake products or trick people into engaging with fraudulent content. These scams often result in victims providing personal or financial information, which can then be stolen and misused.

For example, a deepfake video of a celebrity might be circulated, falsely endorsing a product or service. Consumers who trust the false endorsement are lured into providing payment details or other sensitive information.

2. AI-Generated Romance Scams
   AI-generated images are increasingly being used in online romance scams. Cybercriminals create fake dating profiles using realistic-looking but entirely fabricated images. Victims, believing they are interacting with a real person, may send money or share personal details, only to discover that the person never existed.
3. Phony Charities and Tragedy Scams
   Cybercriminals also capitalize on current events to generate fake images of tragedies, such as funerals, natural disasters or accidents, and post them online to solicit donations for fraudulent charities. These scams exploit people's emotions, particularly during crises, to steal money from well-meaning individuals.

How to Spot and Avoid AI Art and Deepfake Scams

The sophistication of these AI-generated tools can make scams difficult to detect, but there are some red flags to watch for:

• Strange or Unnatural Details:
  AI-generated images often contain subtle mistakes. For instance, a person’s hand may have too many fingers, or shadows may not align naturally. These inconsistencies can indicate that the image was created by AI.
• Unrealistic or Unverified Endorsements:
  If a celebrity or public figure seems to be endorsing a product or cause that feels suspicious, verify the claim through other channels, such as the official website or social media accounts of the individual.
• Too Good to Be True Content:
  If an image, video, or claim seems too perfect or exaggerated, be cautious. Scammers often rely on shock value to make their content go viral and attract attention.
• Pause and Research:
  Always stop and think before clicking on a link or taking any action. Conduct a quick search to confirm the authenticity of the information. Fraudulent content often cannot stand up to scrutiny when cross-referenced with legitimate sources.

Staying Safe in the Age of AI-Generated Scams

As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, it is crucial to stay vigilant and informed. Awareness of how these technologies are being misused is the first step to protecting yourself. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

• Be Skeptical of Viral Content:
  Misinformation can spread quickly, especially if the content evokes strong emotions. Always verify the credibility of the source before engaging with or sharing AI-generated content.
• Report Suspicious Activity:
  If you come across what you believe to be a deepfake or AI-generated scam, report it to the platform where you found it. Many social media sites have mechanisms in place to handle fraudulent content.
• Educate Others:
  Share your knowledge of AI-generated scams with friends, family, and colleagues. The more people are aware of these threats, the less likely they are to fall victim.

Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, and staying ahead of AI-driven scams is a crucial part of keeping our digital lives safe. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the growing dangers of AI art and deepfakes. As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, make it a priority to learn about emerging threats and share this knowledge with others. To learn more about cybersecurity awareness and training for your business or law firm, please book a meeting with our team here. 

Author:

Mel Duncan
Manager, Marketing Communications & Culture