Don't fall for Deepfake Investment Scams

The rise of artificial intelligence has made it easier for fraudsters to launch investment scams that look convincing but are completely fake. One of the most dangerous tools they’re using today is deepfake technology, AI-generated videos that mimic the face, voice, and mannerisms of real people.

These videos are often crafted to feature high-profile individuals such as political leaders, business executives, or celebrities. They appear to endorse special investment programs or partnerships, typically promising fast and guaranteed profits. The ads are then circulated widely online, especially on social media and streaming platforms, to lure in unsuspecting viewers.

The goal is always the same: to gain your trust quickly and get you to hand over personal details or money. But these programs don’t exist, they are scams designed to separate you from your savings.

How to Spot a Deepfake Scam

While deepfakes are becoming increasingly realistic, there are still signs that something isn’t right:

  • Unrealistic returns: If the opportunity sounds too good to be true, it almost always is.
  • Strange video or audio quality: Watch for faces that look blurry, warped, or don’t sync perfectly with the voice.
  • Odd speech patterns: The voice may sound robotic, overly flat, or mismatched to the person’s usual tone.
  • No official confirmation: If a well-known figure is supposedly backing an investment, but you can’t find it reported by reliable news outlets or on their official website, that’s a red flag.

Protect Yourself

  • Always verify before you invest. Double-check the information on trusted websites or with the organization being mentioned.
  • Never share sensitive details like your banking information or government ID through links in an ad.
  • Report suspicious content if you see it online. Many platforms allow you to flag misleading or fraudulent ads.
  • When in doubt, speak with your financial institution directly before making any decisions.

Deepfake scams are designed to pressure you into acting quickly, but taking a moment to slow down and verify the information can save you from becoming a victim. Staying cautious online is the best defense. 

Please reach out to your local branch if you have any questions about investment scams or how to stay safe online.

Visit the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security for current information about scams.