To: All Users

Deepfakes refer to audio or video content that has been digitally manipulated using AI (Artificial Intelligence) deep learning to convincingly imitate a person’s face, voice, or behavior. While this technology has legitimate applications, it is increasingly being exploited by scammers to impersonate individuals—such as corporate executives during video calls—to deceive others and commit fraud. These scams can lead to financial loss, reputational damage, or misinformation, and similar cases have already occurred in Macau.

5 Tips to Protect Yourself from Deepfake Scams:

1. Stay Alert:
   • Always be cautious of videos and audio you receive online. Seeing is not believing. Treat unexpected or suspicious content with skepticism.
2. Verify Through Multiple Sources:
   • Check if the information is reported by other reliable sources, such as official channels or reputable news outlets. If it comes from only one source, it may be fabricated.
3. Watch for Irregularities:
   • Even though deepfakes are becoming more realistic, there are still telltale signs.
     • Facial expressions or lip-syncing that don’t match the audio
     • Unnatural movements or gestures
     • Unusual voice pitch or inconsistent tone
     • Skin tone or lighting that looks off or unnatural
       These can all indicate manipulated media.
4. Be Extra Cautious with Money Requests:
   • If you receive urgent instructions to transfer money—especially from a supposed boss or family member—pause and verify their identity directly, preferably through another channel like a phone call.
5. Hang up on unknown video/voice invitations:
   • If you receive a call or video conference invitation from an unknown number, especially if the caller claims an identity but you can’t immediately verify it, hang up immediately to avoid falling into a Deepfake scam. If the person continues to harass you or makes you feel uncomfortable, consider blocking that number/user account to protect yourself.

Deepfake technology poses real threats, but with awareness and careful verification, you can protect yourself. If you suspect you’ve encountered a deepfake scam, report it to the police or seek assistance immediately.

Should you have any enquiries, please feel free to contact ICTO Help Desk.

Reference:

• How can I identify a phishing, fake email and websites?
• Do not let yourself to be the next victim of phishing scams
• Beware of Ransomware Attacks
• Beware of Spear Phishing
• Beware of Scammers Exploiting AI Techniques

ICTO Help Desk
Location : Room 2085, 2/F, Central Teaching Building (E5), eMap
Telephone : 8822 8600
email : icto.helpdesk@um.edu.mo

Information and Communication Technology Office