PM Lawrence Wong warns of deepfake scams promoting investments and PR applications

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has cautioned the public about deepfake scams using his image to endorse cryptocurrency, money-making schemes, and Permanent Resident (PR) application services.

In a Facebook post on Friday (7 March), Wong highlighted that several such scams are circulating and that he has personally come across them in his feed.

"Do not respond to these scams or share any of your personal information," Wong advised, urging individuals to report such fraudulent activities through the ScamShield platform.

He also encouraged victims to lodge a police report online and reminded the public to remain cautious against online scams.

This is not the first time a Singaporean leader has been targeted by deepfake scams.

In June 2024, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong issued a warning about deepfake videos of him commenting on international relations and foreign leaders. He expressed concerns over the potentially harmful implications of these videos.

"The motive of these deepfakes may not be commercial, but their malicious intent is clear," Lee stated in a Facebook post. "Someone behind them wants to make it seem that these are views supported by me or the Singapore government. This is dangerous and potentially harmful to our national interests."

Lee had also previously warned in December 2023 about deepfake scam videos falsely claiming that he was endorsing investment schemes with guaranteed returns.

One manipulated video showed Lee in an interview with a presenter from Chinese news network CGTN. The video was altered to make it appear as though he was discussing an investment opportunity allegedly approved by the Singapore government.

It falsely promoted a "revolutionary investment platform designed by Elon Musk" and encouraged viewers to register for passive income opportunities.

Investigations later revealed that the scam video was modified from an actual CGTN interview with Lee in March 2023.

Deepfake technology employs artificial intelligence (AI) to manipulate visual and audio content, making it appear as though someone has said or done something they have not.

While some deepfake videos are highly sophisticated, many exhibit telltale signs of manipulation. Viewers can identify possible fakes through irregular facial movements, unusual blinking patterns, and blurred or distorted edits around the face.

Authorities have consistently warned about the risks posed by deepfake scams, which can be used for financial fraud, political misinformation, and reputational harm.

Singapore has taken steps to combat such threats, including strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure and raising public awareness through initiatives like ScamShield.

As deepfake scams continue to evolve, the government urges the public to stay vigilant and verify information from official sources before engaging with any online offers or investment opportunities.