Deepfake scams are growing more sophisticated, Arkansas cybersecurity experts warn

Deepfake scams are growing more sophisticated, Arkansas cybersecurity experts warn

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — Artificial intelligence is making it easier to create realistic fake videos, images and voice recordings, raising concerns among cybersecurity experts about scams, impersonation and online exploitation.

A deepfake is an image, video or audio recording created or altered by artificial intelligence to make it appear that someone said or did something they did not.

More than 22,000 reports involving AI-generated or manipulated content were made nationwide last year. Arkansas law enforcement officials say they are also seeing a rapid increase in reports involving AI-manipulated images.

Chris Wright, a cybersecurity engineer, said people should be cautious before responding to any unexpected message, call or video.

“Slow down. Think before you act. Think before you click. Be skeptical. Don’t be so trusting,” Wright said.

Scammers have long used suspicious emails and phone calls to target victims. Now, experts say AI can create convincing videos, voice recordings and images designed to make a scam appear legitimate.

Wright said some deepfake programs can adjust a person’s voice and image in real time, making the content appear more realistic. He said the technology can also imitate the tone and word choices of a person or organization.

“You can put all the y’alls in the right place to speak to a Southerner and have them think ... this person I know ... actually wrote this because that’s their tone,” Wright said.

Dr. Philip Huff, a cybersecurity professor, said the technology behind deepfake scams is advancing quickly.

“It’s moving so fast, and some of the ways that you can misuse it to commit crime are emerging much faster than we can stop it,” Huff said.

Huff said laws and regulations need to keep pace as artificial intelligence technology continues to evolve.

Experts say deepfakes are also increasingly being used in sextortion schemes and other online crimes targeting children. According to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, sextortion cases have increased 118%, while reports of online enticement have risen 490% since 2024.

Online predators may seek out victims through social media, gaming platforms and web chat rooms. Experts encourage parents and children to keep accounts private, know who they are talking with online and report suspicious messages, images or requests.

They also advise people not to rely on a voice, video or text message alone when someone asks for money or personal information. Instead, contact that person directly using a phone number you know is legitimate.