Discover how over 200 individuals in Karnataka were duped of nearly ₹2 crore through an AI-generated deepfake scam involving a fake ‘Trump Hotel Rental’ app.
The Scam Unveiled
In a startling revelation, cybercriminals exploited AI technology to create deepfake videos of former U.S. President Donald Trump, promoting a fictitious investment opportunity through a mobile application named ‘Trump Hotel Rental‘.
This app promised high returns and remote job opportunities, luring unsuspecting victims into investing substantial amounts.
The scam primarily targeted residents across Karnataka, including cities like Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Tumakuru, and Haveri.
Scam Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| App Name | Trump Hotel Rental |
| Scam Duration | Approximately 5-6 months |
| Number of Victims | Over 200 individuals |
| Total Amount Defrauded | Nearly ₹2 crore |
| Modus Operandi | AI-generated videos of Donald Trump promoting the app; promises of high returns and remote jobs |
| Geographical Spread | Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Tumakuru, Haveri, and other districts in Karnataka |
The Bait: AI-Generated Deepfakes
The scammers ingeniously used AI to craft realistic videos of Donald Trump endorsing the ‘Trump Hotel Rental’ app.
These videos were disseminated through various social media platforms, giving the illusion of legitimacy to the fraudulent scheme.
The Hook: Promises of High Returns
Victims were enticed with the promise of daily returns of up to 3% on their investments. The app required an initial registration fee of ₹1,500, after which users were assigned tasks like writing company profiles.
Completion of these tasks appeared to generate earnings on the app’s dashboard, but these funds were never actually disbursed.
A Victim’s Account
A 38-year-old advocate from Karnataka reported losing nearly ₹6 lakh to the scam. He was drawn in by a YouTube short featuring the AI-generated Trump video, which led him to download the app and invest over a period of several months.
The Aftermath: Investigations Underway
Authorities have initiated investigations into the scam, with multiple complaints filed across various districts. The app has since been taken down, but the incident underscores the growing sophistication of cyber frauds leveraging AI technology.
Staying Safe: Tips to Avoid Such Scams
- Verify Sources: Always cross-check investment opportunities with official sources.
- Be Skeptical of High Returns: Promises of unusually high returns are often red flags.
- Avoid Unverified Apps: Download applications only from trusted platforms like Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a potential scam, report it to cybercrime authorities immediately.