YouTube has been inundated with more than 35 deepfake videos featuring Elon Musk and fake SpaceX crypto giveaways during a recent SpaceX launch. According to a cybersecurity report released on June 6, scammers targeted space enthusiasts eager to witness the starship rocket launch by promising to double their cryptocurrency deposits.
The cybersecurity experts from Avast Threat Labs uncovered the scheme, which saw scammers taking over more than 35 YouTube channels to carry out their fraudulent activities. One of the fake YouTube channels, with 2.9 million subscribers but lacking a verification check mark, livestreamed a fake SpaceX launch, mimicking wide-angle shots of Musk speaking at an outdoor event. The deepfake videos featured AI-generated vocal patterns of Musk, complete with convincing phrases and mannerisms to make the scam seem legitimate.
Viewers were directed to scan a QR code and send cryptocurrencies to an address controlled by the scammers, with the promise of receiving double on every deposit. Despite the convincing nature of the deepfake videos, it is unclear how many people fell victim to the scam and how much money was collected.
YouTube has taken action against the compromised channels, shutting them down for violating the platform’s terms of service. This incident is not the first time Elon Musk has been targeted by scammers using deepfake technology to deceive unsuspecting victims into participating in fake crypto giveaways.
In previous instances, scammers have used Musk’s image to promote fraudulent schemes, promising high returns on cryptocurrency investments. Authorities have issued warnings against such scams, urging the public to be cautious and avoid falling for these deceptive tactics. It is important for individuals to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of any cryptocurrency promotions before participating.
