Global investment fraud network exposed using AI deepfakes

An investigation involving the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) has uncovered a massive global investment fraud network. The criminal organization utilizes artificial intelligence to create deepfake videos of prominent figures, such as Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, to lure victims into fraudulent investment schemes.

By leveraging vast databases of sensitive personal information, the group conducts approximately 100,000 calls daily to collect names, phone numbers, and email addresses. The investigation estimates the network has illicitly obtained over 105 million euros through false promises. In Spain alone, the group holds detailed data on more than 11,000 citizens, half of whom have reportedly been defrauded, leaving many in financial ruin. The criminals primarily target retirees and vulnerable individuals.