AI Deepfakes Becoming Tool of Choice in Cyber Extortion, Says FBI – How is Crypto Being Used in the Process?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a stark warning about the growing threat of "deepfakes" being used in cyber extortion.
In a recent report, the FBI said that malicious actors are using deepfakes to manipulate photographs or videos, often obtained from social media accounts or the open internet, and create sexually-themed images that appear authentic.
They then circulate these photos on social media or pornographic websites for the purpose of sextortion schemes or to harass the victim.
The FBI mentioned that the improvements in the quality, customizability, and accessibility of artificial intelligence-enabled image generators have further contributed to the growth of deepfakes.
The commission said it has received reports from victims, including minors, whose photos or videos were altered to create explicit content that was then publicly circulated.
Many victims were unaware their images had been copied, manipulated, and circulated until it either came to their attention or they stumbled across them online.
Once the manipulated content is circulated, victims face significant challenges in preventing its continual sharing or removal from the internet.
"Malicious actors have used manipulated photos or videos with the purpose of extorting victims for ransom or to gain compliance for other demands (e.g., sending nude photos)," the FBI said.
The federal agency recommended that people exercise caution when posting or direct messaging personal photos, videos, and identifying information on social media, dating apps, and other online sites.
Moreover, people should use discretion when posting images, videos, and personal content online, particularly those that include children or their information, as they can be
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