Central Bank of the Bahamas reiterates warning on deepfake investment scams impersonating its officials

The Central Bank of the Bahamas issued a continued public advisory warning about fake internet ads, videos and social media posts that impersonate Central Bank officials and promote purported investment opportunities offered by the Central Bank. The regulator said these links should not be clicked and that the promotions, which promise exorbitant monthly income in return for investing a few hundred dollars, are fraudulent and intended to steal funds that are unlikely to be recovered. The advisory warns the public about “deepfakes” using artificial intelligence-generated or manipulated images, video and audio, including content impersonating the Governor and other reputable individuals. It also reiterates that, aside from Bahamas Government bonds, savings bonds and treasury bills that pay modest returns, the Central Bank does not offer investments or products to the general public, and it does not charge fees or request deposits for employment opportunities. Legitimate payments to the Central Bank can only be made via local commercial banks through secure, verifiable channels, while Central Bank communications should be authenticated via its website or official social media pages. The public is encouraged to report suspected scams to the Royal Bahamas Police Force and to flag fraudulent content on the platforms where it appears.