Deepfake video of Macau Chief Executive used in investment scam

What happened

A manipulated video that circulated on social media platforms on June 18 used actual footage of Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai attending a public event, which was then altered using AI-powered deepfake technology to promote fraudulent investment platforms.

The Judiciary Police issued a public alert warning residents to remain vigilant against the use of deepfake videos that falsely impersonate the Chief Executive in an apparent online investment scam.

Reported impact

While no victims have come forward so far, the video is part of a trend of AI-related scams seen globally.

The PJ noted that this is not the first time such tactics have been used in Macau, and warned that scammers are increasingly exploiting the likenesses of public figures to deceive the public.

Index analysis

Fraudsters are increasingly exploiting sophisticated AI-powered deepfake technology to manipulate public perception and create deceptive investment schemes.

The police are urging residents to remain cautious of investment offers from unknown sources, especially those promoted through social media or messaging apps, and to verify any investment opportunity through official or regulated channels.

Governance controls

The Judiciary Police is closely monitoring online platforms for similar cases and will continue working with other authorities to trace and dismantle fraud networks using deepfake technology.

Classification

Organizations

Judiciary Police (regulator), Sam Hou Fai (victim)

Category

Fraud, scams and manipulation

Industry

Media, social platforms and marketing

Country

Macao

Harm status

Potential harm

Intent

Intentional

Timing

Unknown

Harm types

Economic or property, Public interest, Reputational

Harmed

General public, Government

Failure modes

Deepfake video, Manipulation or dark pattern

Consequences

None recorded

AI systems

Deepfake technology

Sources and evidence