SINGAPORE / EuroWire.IO / – INTERPOL initiated a worldwide campaign on Monday, October 19, to shed light on the increasing dangers posed by crimes utilizing AI-generated or manipulated media to deceive the public. The campaign presents three brief videos, all created with artificial intelligence, illustrating how synthetic media, known as deepfakes, can be employed to dupe victims. The main message encourages individuals to “Wait. Validate. Don’t take the bait.” The initiative targets both ordinary citizens and law enforcement agencies.
These videos portray scenarios such as a criminal impersonating a superior, cloning a woman’s voice, and fabricating an online romantic persona. INTERPOL emphasized that generative AI and large language models are advancing rapidly, becoming more sophisticated daily. These tools no longer demand extensive technical expertise or high investments, capable of producing highly realistic avatars with human-like speech and reproducing a person’s face or voice from limited online content.
Despite the rise of deepfake technology, INTERPOL noted that public awareness remains limited. Initially considered a threat mainly targeting public figures, synthetic media crimes now increasingly impact private individuals, involving scams related to investments, impersonation, romance fraud, sextortion, deepfake pornography, and disinformation. Scammers may pose as colleagues requesting bank transfers via video calls or as distressed relatives. Past reports have highlighted that criminal groups use AI for cybercrime and fraud.
Recognizable signs of scams are fading
Toshinobu Yasuhira, Director of the INTERPOL Innovation Centre, explained, “AI is erasing the tell-tale signs of a scam.” He added that indicators such as spelling errors, inconsistent branding, and awkward formatting are quickly disappearing. Yasuhira pointed out that anyone, regardless of age, location, or sector, can fall victim. INTERPOL’s goal is to equip law enforcement and the public with knowledge and tools to identify these threats early. UNICEF has also linked children’s AI use to safety and learning concerns.
INTERPOL highlighted that these scams primarily aim to steal money or personal data. Key red flags include unsolicited contact from strangers or individuals claiming to be friends, relatives, or trusted organizations. Victims are often pressured to act swiftly, citing emergencies or crises. Scammers exploit fear, distress, and secrecy to prevent targets from seeking advice. Requests for payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards are common warning signs.
Precautionary measures include safe words and two-factor authentication
INTERPOL also warned about online relationships that develop rapidly, with expressions of love and emotional dependence. Targets may be pushed to move conversations off official dating platforms to avoid detection. The agency advised remaining calm and skeptical, even when trusting someone. It recommends hanging up on unsolicited calls and contacting the individual through verified channels. Discussing suspicious interactions with others is also encouraged.
INTERPOL recommended families and close friends establish a safe word or secret question for verifying identities during suspicious calls. They also suggested checking the online profiles of new contacts and ensuring profile images aren’t stolen from elsewhere. Activating two-factor authentication on all online accounts is strongly advised. This campaign is part of Project SynthWave PLUS, funded by the Government of Japan, supporting law enforcement efforts across Southeast Asia and beyond to counter synthetic media threats.