Celebrity AI Scams: How to Protect Yourself from Fake Endorsements

A Growing Problem

• 72% of Americans have seen a fake celebrity or influencer endorsement online.
• Top Impersonated Celebrities:
  1. Taylor Swift
  2. Scarlett Johansson
  3. Jenna Ortega
  4. Sydney Sweeney
  5. Tom Cruise
  6. LeBron James

How Scammers Operate

• Fake Endorsements: AI-generated content mimicking celebrities.
• Fake Giveaways: Scammers create bogus giveaways to lure victims.
• Fake Products: Ads for non-existent merchandise based on real events (e.g., Taylor Swift's engagement).

The Impact

• 39% of people have clicked on false endorsements.
• 10% have lost hundreds of dollars on average.

How to Spot AI-Generated Content

• Visual Clues:
• Disappearing and reappearing objects.
• Unnatural, plastic-like appearances.
• Watermarks: Many AI generators add watermarks.
• Platform Labels: Check if Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube has labeled the post as AI-generated.

Classic Scam Tactics

• Urgency: Creating a sense of urgency or emotional reaction.
• Payment Methods: Asking for personal information or payment through crypto, Venmo, or other unauthorized sources.

Staying Safe

• Vigilance: Be cautious with personal information.
• Verification: Just because something is endorsed by a celebrity doesn't mean it's legitimate.
• Think Before You Click: Always check the source of the information.