AI-generated deepfakes used in fraudulent scams targeting Uruguayan citizens
UTE, a Uruguayan state-owned utility company, reported an increase in fraudulent scams using AI-generated deepfake images, audio and video of public figures including government officials, athletes and journalists. The scams circulate on social media and messaging platforms, aiming to deceive users into sharing personal and financial data or making fraudulent transactions.
What happened
UTE reported an increase in digital fraud scams utilizing AI tools to generate and distribute falsified images, audio and video content of public figures, including national authorities, athletes and journalists.
The fraudulent communications circulate primarily through social media and messaging platforms, often simulating official messages from government agencies or companies to deceive users into sharing personal and financial data or conducting fraudulent transfers.
Reported impact
UTE stated the objective of these scams is to deceive users, obtain personal and financial data, and induce fraudulent transactions.
Governance controls
UTE stated it never solicits personal or financial data through emails, video calls, phone calls, WhatsApp messages, social media or unofficial websites, and does not conduct financial investments or offer bonifications, prizes or discounts outside official channels.
UTE recommended users avoid clicking suspicious links, verify message senders, distrust promises of quick gains or guaranteed returns, download applications only from official stores, and report fraudulent content on digital platforms.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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