Deepfakes: The Rising Threat Blurring Lines Between Truth and Deception

Far from their innocent roots in trending social media gags, deepfakes now present one of the most alarming innovations in cyber deception. Powered by AI and machine learning, deepfakes use synthetic media—realistic videos, images, or audio generated or altered by artificial intelligence—to convincingly impersonate people.

What began as a novelty has quickly become a dangerous tool used in phishing, disinformation, and fraud campaigns. 

What are Deepfakes?

Deepfakes are created using a type of AI called generative adversarial networks (GANs). These systems can clone voices, facial expressions, and even mannerisms to produce highly convincing fake content. While entertaining uses still exist (think digital aging apps or parody videos), the darker applications are growing rapidly. 

Why Deepfakes Matter in Cybersecurity 

Cybercriminals are beginning to use deepfakes to enhance social engineering attacks. Imagine receiving a video call or voice message that sounds exactly like your CEO, asking you to transfer funds or share sensitive credentials. Unlike traditional phishing emails, deepfakes can exploit human trust on a deeply personal level. 

According to a Gartner report, by 2026, 80% of scam attempts may involve AI-generated content like deepfakes. This isn’t science fiction—it’s reality. 

Real-World Cases 

• In 2023, a multinational firm was duped into making a $35 million wire transfer after an employee received a video conference call from what appeared to be their CFO. It was later confirmed to be a deepfake. 

• Political deepfakes have already influenced public opinion by mimicking candidates delivering false or inflammatory statements. 

Combating the Threat 

Security Awareness Training must evolve to include deepfake detection. Employees should be trained to: 

• Verify via secondary channels: Always confirm sensitive requests using a trusted, alternate method—especially if received via video or voice message. 

• Look for subtle clues: Lag in lip-syncing, unnatural blinking, or odd lighting can be signs of synthetic media. 

• Report suspicions: If you suspect a message might be a deepfake, immediately notify IT or relevant security teams. 

Advanced security platforms have also begun to integrate deepfake detection tools using forensic algorithms, but human awareness remains the first and most effective line of defense. 

Looking Ahead 

As deepfake technology continues to improve, it’s not enough to rely solely on technical safeguards. Businesses must educate employees on how to spot and respond to manipulated content. Cybersecurity awareness programs that include AI-driven threat education will be essential in keeping organizations safe. 

Stay Ahead of Digital Deception 
Global Learning Systems offers training to prepare your workforce for next-gen threats, including deepfakes and AI-based phishing. Contact us to learn more.