A video claiming to feature a Filipino Olympic athlete has been circulating online, but it’s completely fake. Scammers are using deepfake technology and false claims to trap unsuspecting people into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information.
This is not the first time someone’s name and face have been stolen for such schemes. The video uses artificial intelligence to create fake content that looks real enough to fool casual viewers scrolling through their phones.
How the Scam Actually Works
Criminals take a real celebrity’s name and photo, then create or manipulate videos to make it seem like they’re involved in something scandalous. They spread this content across WhatsApp, Telegram, and social media groups with eye-catching headlines.
When people click the link out of curiosity, they either land on fake websites that steal their passwords, or they get tricked into downloading malware. Some versions ask you to “verify” your identity by entering bank details or OTP codes.
The scammers profit in three ways: by selling your personal data to other criminals, by stealing money directly from your bank account, or by tricking you into clicking ads that pay them commission.
Why These Scams Spread So Fast
Indians share content quickly without checking facts. A shocking headline about a celebrity makes people curious, and that curiosity is exactly what criminals count on. Before you know it, the video reaches thousands of phones.
Fake celebrity scandals also work because they create “FOMO” — the fear of missing out. People think everyone else is watching it, so they don’t want to be left out of the conversation.
The technology behind deepfakes has gotten scary good. You can’t always tell a fake video just by watching it. But you can spot the scam by looking for red flags: poor video quality, links that don’t match the official source, or urgent messages asking you to “act fast.”
What Indians Should Do Right Now
If you see such a video, don’t click any links attached to it. Don’t download anything. Most importantly, don’t share it forward. Sharing spreads the scam to your friends and family.
Report these videos to the platform where you see them — WhatsApp, Instagram, or YouTube. You can also report to cyber crime authorities through India’s official cybercrime portal.
Remember: real news about celebrities comes from verified news sources and their official social media accounts. If you’re unsure whether something is real, search for it on Google News or check major news websites.
Scammers are getting smarter every day, but Indians are also learning to be more careful online. Stay alert, stay skeptical, and protect your phone like you protect your wallet.