The Deepfake Scam Era is here. Here are things to look out for:

In 2025, CBS News published an article stating that a French woman named Anne had lost her life savings to scammers posing as Brad Pitt. In truth, deepfake content is becoming increasingly prevalent in the world of scams, with research from McAfee noting that 43% of the people studied have encountered deepfake content, 26% have come across deepfake scams, and another 9% have fallen victim to them.

Deepfakes are audio, video, or images generated or altered using AI to imitate a real person as accurately as possible. Scam tactics often include receiving fake voice messages from a “family member” requesting money, a video from your “boss” asking you to transfer company funds, or a call from your bank finding “suspicious activity" in your account. Ultimately, these deepfake scammers aim to convey a sense of urgency and fear towards victims that often impair judgment, causing one to react before they think. 

Unfortunately, these scams can affect anyone. Older adults (above the age of 60) suffer the highest financial losses due to factors like lower familiarity with technology and being higher savings targets. Younger groups like Millennials and Gen Z also encounter more deepfake content daily and report higher targeting hits. 

As deepfakes become increasingly difficult to spot, one must exercise greater caution when encountering content online. Always question the source’s credibility and context (Clarification is key!). When looking at images or videos, try scanning the subject’s face for any unnatural glitches or jerky movements, and check for any inconsistencies in lighting and shadows. Robotic or odd speech patterns can also be discerned, as AI tends to use highly structured, formal language. 

If one is unsure, always verify suspicious content with trusted sources before sharing! It is recommended to use fact-checking services to verify the authenticity of the content. One should also use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to strengthen account security and prevent account takeover. Avoid spreading unverified content to others, as it may unintentionally prolong the scam and always be cautious of the personal details you share online.   

Remember — It is integral to share such information with vulnerable groups, such as elderly family members, to help them recognize these scams and know what to watch for! When encountering a message that sounds urgent or dire, it is always good to remain calm and to take a second look!

Writer: Megan

Published: 27/04/2026

References

Cidon, A. (2026, February). The deepfake scam era is upon us. Here's how to get ready. Columbia Magazine. https://magazine.columbia.edu/article/deepfake-scams-cybersecurity-asaf-cidon

Global Cyber Alliance. (2025, May 27). Seeing isn't believing | Staying safe during the deepfake revolution. https://globalcyberalliance.org/about-deepfakes/

Greater Texas Credit Union. (2025, December 31). Impersonation & deepfake fraud: What it is, how it works, and how to protect yourself. https://www.gtfcu.org/greater-texas-articles/impersonation-and-deepfake-fraud-what-it-is-how-it-works-and-how-to-protect-yourself-