AI-Generated Celebrity Endorsements
Deepfake videos and images of celebrities 'endorsing' investments or giveaways.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
These scams use AI-generated video, audio or images of well-known figures appearing to endorse an investment, crypto giveaway, or product — lending false credibility to fraud.
How it works
Deepfake clips circulate as ads or social posts showing a celebrity or business leader promoting a 'can't-miss' opportunity. Clicking leads to a fake platform or giveaway that takes your money or data.
Common red flags
- A celebrity 'endorsing' a get-rich-quick scheme
- Slightly off lip-sync, voice, or lighting in the video
- Urgency and limited-time giveaway framing
- Links to unfamiliar investment or giveaway sites
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
[Celebrity]: 'I made my fortune with this platform — join now and double your crypto!' [fake link]
Payment methods used
- Crypto
- Card
- Bank transfer
Who is usually targeted
- Social media users
- Fans of public figures
- Investors
What to do immediately
- Assume celebrity investment endorsements are fake
- Verify via the person's official, verified channels
- Don't click or deposit; report the ad/post
Evidence to preserve
- The video/ad and link
- Where you saw it
- Screenshots
Where to report it
- Action Fraud (UK) — UK national fraud & cybercrime reporting centre
- FTC ReportFraud (US) — US Federal Trade Commission fraud reports
- FBI IC3 (US) — US Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Scamwatch (Australia) — Australian competition & consumer reporting
- Your bank's fraud line — Use the number on the back of your card or in your banking app — never a number the caller gives you
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Frequently asked questions
How can I spot a deepfake endorsement?
Look for unnatural lip-sync, lighting, or voice, and check the person's official verified channels. Treat any celebrity 'investment' or 'giveaway' endorsement as fake until proven otherwise.