AARP Virginia Fraud Alert: Celebrity Imposter AI Scams

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has captured the world's attention, but it has also captured the attention of criminal scammers. One area where AI scams are particularly dangerous is celebrity impostor scams.

For many years, criminals have impersonated celebrities online to steal from fans. Fake celebrity profiles offer fans personal connection, investment opportunities, or the chance to support favorite charities.

AI has allowed criminals to make these scams more realistic than ever with “deepfake” videos. With this technology, criminals can create videos where it looks and sounds like the celebrity is speaking, but it is in fact completely computer generated. Criminal scammers have used this technology for anything from fake product endorsements to promotions for bogus VIP ticket sales.

Posting on a celebrity's social media account might be exciting, but it could put you at risk of this impostor scam. In whatever way you choose to enjoy your favorite celebs, do so recognizing that an opportunity to connect with them personally is likely a scam.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ is a free resource for all. Learn how to proactively spot scams or get guidance if you’ve been targeted. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call our dedicated helpline to speak to a fraud specialist at 877-908-3360.