YouTubers are being scammed with AI-generated deepfake videos

Phishing is a favorite tactic of scammers because so many people fall for it. There are many types of phishing scams, but one of the more recent takes is deepfake phishing, in which scammers use convincing AI-generated videos of people you know (e.g., your boss) to get you to give up sensitive information or send money over.

YouTube recently issued a warning that scammers are spreading AI-generated deepfake videos to Creators, claiming there’s been a change in the site’s monetization policy. One such video impersonates YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, who appears to be announcing those changes.

Scammers are also allegedly sending emails asking recipients to click on a link to “confirm” these updated YouTube Partner Program terms and conditions. The link actually leads to a fake login page (“studio.youtube-plus.com”) designed to steal user credentials. To create a sense of urgency, the scammers threaten that the recipient’s account will be restricted within seven days if they don’t confirm the changes. The stated restrictions include prohibitions on uploading videos, editing existing videos, and receiving revenue.

In the announcement, YouTube makes it clear that the company never shares information via private videos and that all such videos are scam attempts. As such, users are urged not to click on unsolicited links in emails or otherwise, as they may lead to scams and/or malware.

“Imposters are actively trying to impersonate YouTube by exploiting the platform’s features to spread malicious content,” Google writes, advising users to be cautious and avoid unknown links and files.