AI and deepfake scams

A deepfake usually takes the form of a photo or video that’s been altered by AI so it appears to be something it’s not – and they can be incredibly convincing. Often, they’re used to spread false or misleading information and damage reputations. For example, a video of a political leader could be edited so it seems like they’re making inappropriate comments, or an AI-generated photo of a celebrity may show them in a compromising situation.

“But how does this impact my insurance?”, you might be asking. Well, scammers are quick to take advantage of any technology that makes it easier to commit fraud. And that’s where AI comes in. Read on to find out how deepfakes are being used in financial crime and how you can stay a step ahead.

Deepfake and AI scams use technology – such as apps and software – to manipulate information and images, making something appear real when it’s not. In the insurance world, scammers can use AI to make fraudulent claims or set up fake policies. We’ve listed the main methods below:

Images 

Insurers will often ask for photographic proof of damage before paying a claim. So, scammers may use AI to create fake photos showing damage to a property to support a fraudulent home insurance claim. Or they may find an existing photo of a damaged vehicle and use AI to change the registration number to match the car they’re making a claim on.

Videos 

AI can also be used to make fake videos to support fraudulent claims. Dash cam footage could be changed to make it look like a vehicle’s been involved in an accident. Even doorbell or home security videos could be modified to show a burglary that never happened.

Documents 

Scammers can use AI software to generate convincing fake invoices to back up insurance claims.  And AI generated fake IDs that use personal information and images found on the web allow scammers to set up policies in someone else’s name.

Our risk expert, Oliver Henderson, had this to say about the steps we’re taking to spot deepfake claims and keep your policy safe:   

“We're always looking for ways to improve how we detect fraudulent claims. But two of the key things we implemented immediately were to train all our people in spotting deepfakes, and to pay more attention to sources of information. A picture of a driving licence is not as trustworthy as checking an identity directly with the DVLA, for example.

“By combining these very human skills with our advanced technology and constant security reviews, we’re confident in our ability to protect innocent customers from the scammers who plague our industry.”

While deepfakes can be very convincing, there are still a few steps you can take to protect yourself. Learn how to spot it and then stop it using the following tips:

• As technology improves, it’s getting harder and harder to tell the difference between genuine images and deepfakes, but there are still some areas where AI can trip up. Here are some telltale signs to look out for:
  o Spelling or grammar mistakes on official documents, such as a driver’s licence.
  o Floating hands, or limbs positioned in ways that would challenge a contortionist.
  o Images that look too perfect. AI tends to make hair and skin look overly smooth or sometimes blurry.
• Be aware of what personal information and images you share online and, where possible, update your settings on social media sites to ‘private’.
• Stay informed about the latest fraud schemes and how to recognise them. Action fraud regularly post news and alerts about emerging scams.
• Report any activity that seems suspicious – when it comes to your finances, it really is better to be safe than sorry. You can find guidance on reporting fraud at the bottom of this article.

For more information on safely surfing the web, head to our fraud help and support hub.

If you think any of your Aviva policies or investments have been targeted by scammers, you can let us know by completing our scam report form.

Our fraud experts will investigate and get back to you within two working days.

If you aren’t an Aviva customer, you can report any fraud concerns to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or heading to the Action Fraud website. 

Or, for those based in Scotland, you can report scams directly to Police Scotland by calling 101.