Cybertrace Warns of Deepfakes Featuring Billionaire Andrew Forrest
Date: 2024-02-02 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: BUSINESS
In a recent development, Cybertrace, a leading cybersecurity firm, has alerted the public to the presence of deepfake videos featuring the prominent Australian magnate, Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest. These fabricated videos aim to promote a fraudulent platform for cryptocurrency trading, posing a significant risk to unsuspecting individuals.
The first appearance of these deepfake videos was reported on Facebook on January 27th. Scammers attempted to lure viewers into downloading dubious software by offering them a seemingly golden opportunity to join Forrest's team. The fake version of Forrest promised access to the world's most intelligent software for trading stocks and cryptocurrencies, claiming it could generate profits regardless of market conditions.
The video concluded with the deepfake urging viewers to "register on the platform before it's too late." The fabricated recording mimics Forrest's behavior during his real presentation at Rhodes Trust in October 2023.
Andrew Forrest, the former CEO of Fortescue Metals Group, is among Australia's most successful entrepreneurs, with a personal fortune estimated at around $29.4 billion, according to Bloomberg.
Cybertrace CEO Dan Helpin expressed concern that people might fall victim to this deepfake scam due to its lengthy and persuasive nature. He believes that the scammers behind it likely possess marketing expertise, making their deception more convincing.
Cybertrace analysts have also identified other scam deepfakes impersonating news anchors and celebrities.
This incident comes in the wake of Hollywood talent agency WME partnering with Vermillio to protect celebrities from the misuse of their AI-generated personas, following the Taylor Swift deepfake scandal.
It's crucial for individuals to stay vigilant against such deceptive practices and seek trusted sources of information to avoid falling victim to cryptocurrency scams. This alarming trend of deepfake impersonations highlights the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and awareness within the cryptocurrency community.
