SCAM OF THE WEEK: Beware of the Celebrity AI Cash Grab

In a recent scam, cybercriminals posted a fake video of Elon Musk on YouTube, trying to trick you into handing over your money.

Cybercriminals often use AI to impersonate celebrities so that they can spread misinformation or trick people into falling for their scams. This particular scam attempts to trick you into depositing your cryptocurrency into an online account.  

In this scam, the cybercriminals used AI to create a fake video that looks and sounds like the real Elon Musk. The video contains a QR code, and the AI-generated Musk urges you to scan it. If you follow the instructions to scan the code, you will be directed to deposit money into an account with the promise of receiving a larger return for your investment. The catch is there is no return on your investment. Your funds are deposited right into the scammers’ pockets! 

Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to an AI video scam:

• Be wary of any social media content that uses endorsements from celebrities, because celebrities can be impersonated online.
• Be cautious whenever you are prompted to enter financial information online. Only use official financial websites. 
• No legitimate financial institution will guarantee a large return on a small investment. If the opportunity seems too good to be true, it usually is. 

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