Deepfake technology has taken a threatening turn where morphed dead videos of girls in sextortion schemes are used. Additionally, the advancements in AI-generated content with criminal intent, are now targeting victims for financial gain. In this blog, we will give a brief history, working mechanism, tools used, and the security impact on society in addition to recommendations.
Deepfake technology was originally developed for entertainment purposes which involves creating realistic fake videos by superimposing one person's face onto another's body. Now this technology is exploited by malicious actors and being used in morphed dead videos of girls to extort higher ransoms from victims. These morphed videos take advantage of victim's emotions by creating a sense of urgency and fear to pressure them into paying up.
To create these deepfake videos, machine learning algorithms and advanced image manipulation tools are used by attackers. There are various sources to collect facial data including social media like facebook, instagram etc. Then they use deep learning techniques to train the models. These sophisticated tools enable them to generate convincing videos that can deceive even the most vigilant observer.
The impact of such deepfake sextortion crime is far-reaching. Victims are asked for ransom which results in financial losses, causes emotional distress, reputational damage, and the erosion of trust. This affects individuals, families, and society as a whole.
Recommendation
1. Maintain Privacy: share limited information and media you share online while restricting those to only trusted audience.
2. Use multi factor authentication wherever possible to enhance the security of your online accounts and prevent unauthorized access.
3. Cybersecurity Awareness is the key. Beware of suspicious requests or messages.
4. Be cautious of interactions done over online media and verify the authenticity of individuals, unsolicited requests or blackmail attempts.
5. If you become a victim of deepfake sextortion or encounter suspicious activities, report it to the appropriate authorities and seek professional support.
References
https://www.the420.in/deepfake-nightmare-sextortionists-resort-to-morphed-dead-videos-of-girls-for-higher-ransom/
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