Using artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfakes to deceive victims: the need to rethink current romance fraud prevention messaging

Cross, C. (2022) — Crime Prevention and Community Safety

AI-Generated Synopsis

Romance fraud exploits the appearance of a genuine romantic connection to lure individuals into financial exploitation. Each year, a large number of people worldwide lose money to such schemes. Current prevention messaging centers on urging people to perform online searches, with particular emphasis on reverse image searches, to confirm or challenge the identity or scenario being presented. When individuals undertake these checks, they can avoid initial financial losses or reduce the total amount of money lost to an offender. However, as technology advances, it is expected that offenders will modify their approaches to mislead victims. There is already clear evidence of rapid progress in artificial intelligence and the use of deepfakes to generate distinctive images, illustrating how the landscape of deception is evolving. The article notes that the adoption of these new techniques calls for reconsideration of existing prevention strategies, since the value of conducting reverse image searches may diminish over time. In light of these developments, the piece argues for a reevaluation of current prevention messaging to keep pace with evolving tactics. The central claim is that the utility of reverse image searches could become limited as offenders leverage more sophisticated technologies, underscoring the need to adapt outreach and guidance to future risks. The discussion presents a forward-looking perspective on how prevention efforts might better address emerging capabilities in romance fraud.


        
      

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