AI Deepfake Scam Steals $5.6M in Fake FTX Claims Fraud

A sophisticated fraud scheme involving deepfake technology has led to the theft of at least $5.6 million from companies purchasing fake FTX liquidation claims, according to Inca Digital. The scam, uncovered ahead of FTX’s scheduled payouts on February 18, highlights the growing risks posed by AI-driven financial fraud in the crypto industry.

Investigators revealed that the fraudster, or a group of fraudsters, used artificial intelligence to generate deepfake video calls, impersonating legitimate claim holders. These counterfeit claims appeared valid but had no real connection to the seller. The perpetrators also faked credentials, provided false addresses in Singapore, and used real claim data—likely obtained from public sources or leaked databases tied to the FTX bankruptcy.

The stolen funds were rapidly funneled through international exchanges, including Binance, making recovery difficult. It remains unclear if federal authorities are probing the exchanges involved in laundering the stolen assets.

Adam Zarazinski, CEO of Inca Digital, warned that AI-driven fraud is on the rise and could further exploit the crypto market’s rapid expansion. The report acknowledged the challenges of verifying digital identities and the increasing prevalence of AI-generated deception in financial crimes.

This case underscores the importance of heightened vigilance in the crypto industry, especially as fraudsters leverage advanced technology to exploit major financial events.