Criminals used artificial intelligence (AI) to create a deepfake video of Miriam Weichselbraun. A Burgenlander fell into the online trap.
Anyone who uses the internet knows that dangers lurk there. But as awareness increases, criminals’ methods also become more sophisticated. Using AI programs, they can create deceptively realistic-looking videos of celebrities intended to trick users.
Van der Bellen promotes trading platform
In these deepfake videos, for example, Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen promises access to an automated trading platform during a parliamentary session or Armin Assinger explains how he earned more than two million euros with a secret investment trick. Or Miriam Weichselbraun tells in an interview how she generates passive income. None of these videos are real. The affected celebrities often don’t even know the videos exist.
18,000 euros invested
The country’s Consumer Protection Advisory Center is already aware of the several deepfake videos that actually promote fraudulent investment platforms. In the most recent case, a man from the surrounding Eisenstadt district fell victim to cybercriminals. He made an investment of more than 18,000 euros based on a promotional video with Miriam Weichselbraun. To date, he has not received the promised profit of 50,000 euros.
Account has been deleted and no one can be reached anymore
On these platforms you are supported by ‘personal advisors’, consumer protection explains. “As a rule, you start with small amounts. Then the ‘advisers’ motivate you to deposit increasingly larger amounts. They are usually very convincing, but they also put you under enormous pressure.” There is no visible gain. Only when payment is requested will everything come to light. The account is then closed and the “advisers” can no longer be reached.
Stricter rules needed
For Deputy State Governor Astrid Eisenkopf, responsible for consumer protection, such cases make it clear that stricter rules in the AI sector are urgently needed to protect consumers. What is needed is the federal government. “It is high time to steer the AI market in an orderly direction – especially when it comes to consumer protection. Particularly dangerous AI systems must be removed from the market and banned,” Eisenkopf demands.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
