Fraud

Deepfake

Deepfake means creating a artificial image or video generated by a special kind of machine learning called “deep” learning. There are two overviews of how deepfakes work in this article: one for the layperson, and one for the technically-minded. Basically, deep learning is similar to any kind of machine learning, where an algorithm is fed examples and learns to produce output that resembles the examples it learned from. Humans learn the same way, for example a baby tries to eat random objects, and it quickly discovers what’s edible and what’s not. It’s so much of a threat that courts don’t see videos that are likely to be deepfake as evidence.

Catfishing

Catfishing refers to the creation of a fictitious online persona or fake identity, with the intent of deception, usually to mislead a victim into an online romantic relationship or to commit financial fraud, such as the “pig butchering” scam. Perpetrators, usually referred to as catfish, generally use fake photos and lie about their personal lives to present themselves as more attractive for financial gain, evasion of legal consequences, or to troll people.

Blackmail

In popular culture, ‘blackmail’ involves a threat to reveal or publicize either substantially true or false information about a person or people unless certain demands are met. It is often damaging information, and it may be revealed to family members or associates rather than to the general public. Acts of blackmail can also involve using threats of physical, mental or emotional harm, or of criminal prosecution, against the victim or someone close to the victim.

Impersonation

Impersonation is the act of pretending to be another person, either to deceive someone for malicious purposes or to entertain others through mimicry. It involves adopting another’s behavior, appearance, or voice, ranging from criminal imposture to celebrity impressions.

Phishing

Phishing is when criminals use scam emails, text messages or phone calls to trick their victims. The aim is often to make you visit a website, which may download viruses onto your computer, steal bank details or other personal information.

Written by: Kerem Yılmaz