Technology is intended to be a resource for productivity. Unfortunately, malicious actors use those same advancements to create deepfakes. We have entered a period where visual and auditory information during business calls is no longer inherently trustworthy. These tools are being used to bypass security protocols and access corporate funds.
The Definition of a Deepfake
A deepfake is media—an image, audio clip, or video—digitally altered or created using artificial intelligence to misrepresent an individual. The technology utilizes complex neural networks to generate realistic content. The result is a realistic representation of a falsehood.
Three Ways Deepfakes Target Businesses
These attacks are occurring now. Here are three methods scammers use to target organizations:
Audio Impersonation
Scammers clone voices using as little as thirty seconds of source material from public videos or social media. They use this cloned audio to call employees and request unauthorized, urgent wire transfers. Because the voice sounds authentic, employees may feel pressured to skip verification steps.
Video Conference Infiltration
Malicious actors join scheduled video calls appearing as a company executive. They often claim technical issues or poor connectivity to explain visual glitches. They then instruct the team to move funds for confidential projects. Because the team sees a familiar face, they often follow instructions without further question.
Extortion and Reputation Damage
Scammers generate fake footage of leadership engaging in offensive or illegal behavior. They use this media for ransom demands. Even if the video is eventually proven false, the immediate impact on brand trust is significant and difficult to repair.
The Impact on Your Organization
Data is essential, but business operations rely on verified identity. If staff cannot confirm the identity of a person on a call, workflows stop. The risk involves significant financial loss and a heavy psychological impact on employees. Falling victim to a sophisticated scam can leave staff members hesitant to make future decisions.
Protective Measures
You can protect your organization by implementing the following protocols:
Establish a shared secret phrase. Use a specific password known only to key personnel for high-stakes actions like wire transfers. If the caller does not provide the phrase, the request should be treated as fraudulent.
Verify through a secondary channel. Contact the individual on a known personal number if a request seems unusual. Do not use return call features or numbers provided during the suspicious call.
Monitor for visual inconsistencies. Look for unnatural movement around the mouth or irregular blinking patterns. Many deepfakes still struggle with these subtle biological details.
Implement staff training. Ensure employees understand that these tools are currently being used in phishing attacks. Awareness is required for prevention.
Technology is evolving rapidly. By the end of this year, these fakes will be more difficult to detect. If you want to discuss hardening your business against these threats, we can help. Call 800.618.9844.
