Deepfake scammers target Guernsey chief minister in fake investment scheme

Fraudsters are using AI-generated deepfake content featuring Guernsey’s chief minister to trick islanders into fake investment schemes. The scam includes fabricated videos and images of Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez appearing to endorse fraudulent investments, along with fake local newspaper articles designed to lend credibility to the deception.

What you should know: Guernsey Police have issued warnings after discovering the sophisticated deepfake scam targeting local residents.

• The fraudulent content shows fake video and images of Chief Minister Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez seemingly recommending investment opportunities.
• Scammers also created fake local newspaper articles to make their scheme appear more legitimate and trustworthy.
• Police emphasized that “this story, along with any others that may surface featuring Deputies requesting payment or investment, are not real and are a scam.”

The big picture: This incident reflects the growing threat of deepfake technology being weaponized for financial fraud as AI capabilities become more accessible.

• Deepfake scams have become increasingly common as AI technology improves, with high-profile figures like financial journalist Martin Lewis and London Mayor Sadiq Khan previously targeted.
• The sophistication of these scams makes them particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations who may struggle to identify fake content.

In plain English: Deepfakes are AI-created videos or images that make it appear someone said or did something they never actually did—like putting words in someone’s mouth or making them appear in situations they were never part of.

What they’re saying: Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez acknowledged the concerning nature of the scam while expressing cautious optimism about public awareness.

• “Most people would quickly realise it’s fake,” she said, while advising islanders to warn vulnerable people that the posts were fraudulent.
• Police warned people to be wary of “articles that promote too-good-to-be-true investments or prizes.”

Safety advice: Authorities provided specific guidance for protecting against these and similar scams.

• Think twice before clicking links, entering personal details, or providing bank information online.
• Be particularly suspicious of investment opportunities that seem too good to be true.
• Anyone who suspects they may have been the victim of online fraud should contact their bank immediately.