Hyderabad Cybercrime Police Summon Meta Over AI Deepfake Investment Scams

Hyderabad Cybercrime Police have issued a notice to Meta seeking details about how its platforms detect and remove artificial intelligence-generated deepfake videos being used to promote fraudulent investment schemes.

The investigation follows a growing number of complaints from victims who say they were tricked by manipulated videos featuring well-known public figures allegedly endorsing fake trading platforms and investment opportunities. Authorities are examining how such content spreads across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram and whether additional safeguards are needed to prevent financial fraud.

Fake Celebrity Videos Used to Lure Investors

Investigators have identified multiple cases where deepfake videos allegedly showed prominent personalities appearing to support fake financial schemes.

The probe includes manipulated content featuring Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, actor Amitabh Bachchan, and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi. Police said these videos were circulated online to create false credibility and encourage users to invest money through fraudulent platforms.

Owaisi had earlier approached Hyderabad Police after his identity was allegedly misused in a fake investment promotion. Similar deepfake-based scams have also targeted other public figures, including business leaders and celebrities, as fraudsters increasingly use trusted faces and voices to convince victims.

Fraud Pattern Follows a Common Method

Cybercrime investigators said many investment scams follow a similar approach. Criminals first use deepfake videos or fake advertisements to attract victims, then move conversations to private messaging platforms such as WhatsApp or Telegram.

Victims are often shown fake trading dashboards displaying artificial profits. When they attempt to withdraw funds, scammers demand additional payments in the form of taxes, processing charges, or verification fees.

Authorities have warned that the realistic appearance of AI-generated videos makes these scams more difficult for ordinary users to identify.

Meta Asked to Explain Detection Measures

A Meta representative has already appeared before investigators, who presented details of cases involving significant financial losses. Police have now requested technical experts from the company to explain the systems used to identify, monitor, and remove AI-generated fraudulent content.

The investigation reflects a broader effort by Telangana cybercrime authorities to examine the responsibilities of major technology platforms in preventing online fraud.

Officials are also reviewing whether social media companies and digital platforms are taking sufficient preventive measures rather than responding only after victims report losses.

Growing Pressure on Technology Platforms

The action against Meta follows similar scrutiny of other technology companies. In a separate investigation, Cyberabad Police questioned processes related to fraudulent stock-trading applications that allegedly caused financial losses after appearing on an app marketplace.

Together, these cases indicate a stronger focus by law enforcement agencies on the role of digital platforms in enabling cybercrime through advertisements, applications, and user-generated content.

Authorities are also examining the impact of updated Indian technology regulations that increase obligations for online platforms regarding synthetic media, harmful content detection, and user safety.

Experts Warn of Rising AI Fraud Threat

Cybersecurity experts have described AI-generated deepfakes as one of the fastest-growing threats in the online fraud landscape.

Experts warn that criminals can now create convincing videos and voice recordings of trusted individuals, making victims more likely to believe false investment claims.

Authorities have advised users to verify investment opportunities through official sources, avoid transferring money based solely on online promotions, and remain cautious of offers promising unusually high returns.

Investigation Continues

Hyderabad Cybercrime Police said the investigation will focus not only on identifying scam operators but also on understanding how fraudulent content reaches large audiences.

Officials believe cooperation between law enforcement agencies and major technology companies will be essential to reducing organized cyber fraud and improving digital safety for users.