The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) has launched a public awareness campaign warning that criminals increasingly use synthetic media, commonly known as deepfakes, to steal money and sensitive personal information. Three videos created using artificial intelligence illustrate how these scams work and encourage people to pause and verify requests. Tools that convincingly reproduce a person’s face or voice from limited online material are becoming more accessible, while public understanding of their criminal use remains low. The campaign highlights impersonation and investment scams, alongside fraudulent online relationships. Warning signs include unsolicited requests for money or banking information, pressure to act immediately, demands for secrecy and requests for payment through methods that are difficult to trace or recover. Individuals should independently verify unexpected calls through known contact channels, agree on a secret phrase with family or friends to confirm identity, and activate two-factor authentication on online accounts. For businesses, the advice includes mandatory staff training on deepfake scams, voice phishing and social engineering. Financial transactions and data transfers should require multiple verification steps, including confirmation in person for large sums. Businesses should also update software regularly to protect against malware and spyware. Anyone who suspects a scam should contact local law enforcement immediately and, if a payment was recently made, contact their bank as soon as possible. The campaign forms part of Project SynthWave PLUS, which supports law enforcement responses to synthetic media threats in Southeast Asia and beyond.

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