Deepfakes are Costing Companies Real Money
Using AI to digitally alter images, videos and audio is becoming increasingly common, and they’re being used to impersonate business leaders and family members to steal money or sensitive information.
Entrust, an identity-centric security solutions organization, released its seventh annual Identity Fraud Report for 2026, revealing deepfakes account for 1 in 5 biometric fraud attempts and cases of deepfaked selfies increased by 58% in 2025.
You’ve probably seen deepfakes of celebrities saying silly things or pets acting like humans. While these are generally harmless and can be good for a laugh, other deepfakes are weaponized to defame individuals and commit fraud.
In a world of misinformation, deepfakes can make the unbelievable appear genuine.
So, is there anything you can do to protect yourself?
Here are some tips to follow to avoid deepfake attacks.
Be Careful What You Share
Any personal information you share online can be used against you. That includes high-quality photos and videos, along with details about where you work, hobbies, and more.
The more an attacker knows about you, the more believable their story will be when they attempt to deceive your co-workers or friends.
Adjust the settings on social media platforms so only trusted people you know can see what you post.
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking your likeness won’t be used in a deepfake scam. Employee phishing training is essential in halting these attacks.
Use Watermarked Photos/Videos
Consider using watermarked photos and videos when sharing online.
This will discourage attackers from using your content, as it will be traceable.
Verify Requests for Money or Sensitive Information
If you receive a voicemail or video message from someone you know asking for money or personal information, contact them directly to see if the request is legitimate.
Phishing messages always want you to act quickly, so you don’t think about what is being asked of you.
Additionally, don’t click on links in suspicious emails. They can install malware on your computer or redirect you to malicious sites designed to steal your information.
Report Deepfake Content
If you see deepfake content that involves you or someone you know, report it to the platform where it was posted. Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram or X, reported content will be investigated and generally removed, limiting its potential reach.
Stay Alert, Stay Secure
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking your likeness won’t be used in a deepfake scam. Employee phishing training is essential in halting these attacks.
Contact us to schedule a consultation. Our phishing training turns your employees into a first line of defense before one wrong move costs you everything.
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