Cybersecurity expert Sergey Zolotukhin from F6 emphasizes that a skeptical approach to unusual or unclear text and voice messages in messengers is crucial for effective protection against deepfakes. In a recent interview, he shared essential strategies to help individuals avoid falling victim to these sophisticated scams.
“If you receive such a strange message, contact the sender directly by phone or in person, avoiding the messenger that might be compromised. If the sender`s account has been hijacked, they should notify the service administration as quickly as possible,” Zolotukhin advised.
Furthermore, Zolotukhin strongly recommends enabling two-factor authentication for all messenger accounts and exercising extreme caution by never clicking on suspicious links. If, unfortunately, scammers have succeeded in extorting money, victims should immediately contact law enforcement to report the incident.
Zolotukhin also detailed five primary deepfake scam schemes that utilize advanced voice and video impersonations:
- FakeBoss: Scammers impersonate an individual`s superior or employer, often sending urgent requests for money or sensitive information.
- FakeDate: Criminals pose as potential romantic partners, building trust to eventually solicit money or personal data.
- FakeNews: Deepfakes are used to impersonate officials or public figures, spreading misinformation or making fraudulent demands.
- Cryptocurrency Investment Scams: Fraudsters leverage deepfake technology to lure victims into fake investment projects, particularly those involving cryptocurrencies.
- Direct Loan Requests: Fake audio and video messages are sent, impersonating friends or family members, asking for money to be “loaned” urgently.
A more recent and alarming tactic has come to light: scammers are now posing as hackers who claim to have been “commissioned” to target the victim. They then offer to “outbid” this supposed contract. As proof of their illegitimate “work,” these fraudsters present the victim with personal data such as their full name, phone number, address, and potentially even passport details, aiming to coerce them into paying.
Staying vigilant and informed about these evolving threats is the best defense against sophisticated deepfake scams.
Clement Ashworth 
Barnaby Whitfield