Fraudsters are using sophisticated artificial intelligence to impersonate Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in a new cryptocurrency scam circulating online. The deepfake video, which appears shockingly realistic, shows a digitally manipulated version of the Australian leader endorsing a fake investment scheme.
How the Scam Works
The fraudulent video, which has been spreading across social media platforms, features an AI-generated version of Albanese falsely claiming that a new government-backed cryptocurrency programme offers "life-changing" returns. Viewers are then directed to a scam website designed to steal personal and financial information.
Authorities Issue Warning
Australian cybersecurity experts have issued urgent warnings about the sophisticated scam. "This is one of the most convincing deepfake attempts we've seen targeting a public figure," said a spokesperson for the Australian Cyber Security Centre. "The public should be extremely cautious of any unsolicited investment opportunities, especially those endorsed by seemingly official sources."
The Rise of Political Deepfakes
This incident marks the latest in a growing trend of AI-powered political impersonation scams. Earlier this year, similar deepfake videos targeted UK politicians, prompting calls for stricter regulation of synthetic media. Cybersecurity analysts predict such attacks will become increasingly common as the technology becomes more accessible.
How to Protect Yourself
- Never trust investment opportunities promoted through unsolicited messages or social media posts
- Verify any official government announcements through legitimate .gov.au websites
- Be sceptical of videos showing public figures making unusual financial claims
- Report suspicious content to the relevant social media platform and Scamwatch
Experts advise that if an investment opportunity seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is - regardless of who appears to be endorsing it.
