Brazil: 4 arrested for using deepfake videos of celebrities in scam
Brazilian police have arrested four people for running a massive online scam using AI deepfake videos of supermodel Gisele Bundchen and other celebrities.
The group posted fake Instagram ads for products and giveaways, tricking users into paying fees but never sending anything in return.
The scheme reportedly brought in millions before it was uncovered, after a victim reported a bogus skincare ad in August 2024.
Investigators tracking money trail
Investigators found over 20 million reais (about $3.9 million) moving through accounts across five states, with charges including online fraud and money laundering.
Deepfakes were also used to push fake betting platforms, and most victims lost small amounts—often under 100 reais ($19)—which meant many didn't bother reporting the crime.
In June 2024, Brazil's Supreme Court ruled that social media companies can be held responsible if they don't quickly remove illegal ads; Meta says it bans these scams and uses advanced tools to catch them.
Authorities are freezing assets as the investigation continues across multiple states.