AI Deepfakes: The New Scam Targeting Aussies Online

There's a growing concern Down Under about a new type of scam, and it’s powered by artificial intelligence. We're talking about 'deepfakes' — incredibly realistic fake videos or images created by AI that can make it look like someone is doing or saying something they never did. While the headlines might focus on online content creators, the implications for everyday Australians are much broader.

Imagine a scammer creating a fake video of someone you know, maybe even a family member, asking for money or making a false statement. These aren't just dodgy photoshopped images anymore; AI can now generate convincing moving pictures and voices. This makes it incredibly difficult to tell what's real and what's not, opening up new ways for criminals to trick people.

The core of the problem is identity theft and fraud, but supercharged by AI. Scammers are using deepfakes to impersonate people, hoping to trick others into handing over personal information or money. It's a reminder that even as technology advances, the old rules of online safety still apply: if something feels off, or too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify requests, especially those involving money or sensitive information, through a separate, trusted channel.

For small business owners, this also raises questions about brand reputation and employee impersonation. Could a scammer create a deepfake of you or your staff to trick clients? It’s a sobering thought. Staying informed and being vigilant about what you see and hear online is more important than ever. We're still learning about the full extent of deepfake misuse, but awareness is our best defence.