Experts predict a significant rise in the number of fraudulent audio and video materials created using deepfake technologies. This warning comes from Alexandra Shmigirilova, GR Director at “Code of Security.”
“Scammers are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence technologies capable of generating realistic voice impersonations, as well as imitating movements and facial expressions. For instance, a common scheme involves hacking into a popular messenger channel and posting a deepfake video where fraudsters, impersonating the channel`s owner, urge viewers to click on malicious links,” explained Shmigirilova.
She added that many people already find it difficult to distinguish deepfakes from genuine content. In the future, she believes, AI-generated fakes will play a pivotal role in the arsenal of cybercriminals. Furthermore, AI is actively employed to automate scam attacks, engage in conversations with potential victims, and select the most persuasive communication style.
“We should prepare for a further increase in the volume of fake videos, audio messages, and calls,” Shmigirilova cautioned citizens.
According to Shmigirilova, the success of fraudsters largely depends on how quickly they adopt new tools and tactics. For example, the faster criminals adapt their schemes to a new messenger platform, the higher the probability of a successful attack, as users of newer platforms are often less aware and do not anticipate scams.
“Choosing a less common communication channel increases the likelihood that a criminal will succeed in convincing a person of the veracity of the information being conveyed. Therefore, to remain effective, fraudsters must constantly adapt, refine their methods, invent new narratives, and prevent information about their tactics from becoming public,” the expert emphasized.
At the same time, Shmigirilova clarified that at the core of all fraudulent operations lie the same fundamental principles: the use of phishing links and social engineering techniques, which remain cornerstones of online fraud.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia advises citizens to delete or securely store files that could be of interest to cybercriminals. Particular caution should be exercised with photos and scans of documents such as passports, SNILS (individual insurance account number), TIN (taxpayer identification number), driver`s licenses, and bank cards.
Clement Ashworth 
Barnaby Whitfield