Exploiting Trust: The hidden dangers of using ‘Anchors and Influencers’ in Betting App promotions

With each passing day, new methods of fraud and deception are emerging. Recently, a new wave of online betting has surfaced on social media platforms, using videos created through artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology featuring TV anchors and celebrities for promotion.

For several months, advertisements for such gaming apps have been circulating, leveraging the likeness of journalists, cricketers, YouTubers, anchors, and other personalities. Many journalists expressed shock and dismay as these ads manipulated their videos, voices, and mannerisms to appear to endorse specific gaming apps.

Renowned Anchor Syed Muzammil Shah’s Experience
Syed Muzammil Shah, a well-known anchorperson and YouTuber, shared his ordeal. A gaming app used footage from his talk show in a way that appeared like a news broadcast promoting the app. Speaking with Urdu News, he said, “I was shocked to see this.”

He explained, “Several friends pointed out that I was promoting a gambling app. I was stunned because I had never been part of any such promotion. They altered a segment of my show to make it seem like both actor Wahaj Ali and I had used the app, which was completely false.”

Faisal Abbasi’s Encounter
Faisal Abbasi, another TV show host, fell victim to these fake advertisements. He issued clarifications on his social media platforms. “I was taken aback when I found out about it,” he said. “My voice, video, and even my channel’s logo were used in the ad. Celebrities often promote various apps, but I have never been part of such campaigns.”

The Dangers of Deepfake Technology
Faisal Abbasi added, “Deepfake technology has made it easier for scammers. They can create any person’s voice or video to promote illegal activities.”

Former Additional DG FIA Ammar Jafri explained, “Deepfake and AI technology present both opportunities and risks. While it can simplify tasks, it also enables impersonation of voices, videos, and even speaking styles. This can lead to strained relationships and a significant threat of fraud.”

Victims of Online Fraud
Some gaming apps and similar links not only commit financial fraud but also gain unauthorized access to users’ data. Cybersecurity expert Muhammad Asad-ur-Rehman stated, “These fake and illegal companies utilize deepfake technology extensively.

Today, affordable tools are available in the market that can create any type of voice or video. This way, they not only deceive people financially but also try to access your device or mobile data.”