Deepfake Scam: 10 Important Do’s to Stay Safe Online

1. Verify Before You Trust: Always double-check any video, voice, or image that seems unusual — even if it looks real or comes from someone you know.

2. Cross-Check the Source: Confirm messages or videos through official channels (company emails, verified social media, or direct calls).

3. Use Reverse Search Tools: Use tools like Google Lens or InVID to verify if a video/image already exists online or has been manipulated.

4. Stay Skeptical of Emotional Content: Deepfakes often trigger fear, urgency, or excitement to make you act fast. Pause, think, and verify first.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Protect all your social media and banking accounts with 2FA to prevent hackers from misusing your identity.

6. Follow Trusted News Sources: Rely only on verified news outlets for information about viral videos or messages — not random forwards.

7. Educate Family & Friends: Inform others about deepfake scams so they can recognize and report suspicious content.

8. Report Suspected Deepfakes: Report fake or manipulated media to cybercrime.gov.in, social media platforms, or local police.

9. Use AI Detection Tools: Use tools like Deepware Scanner, Sensity AI, or Microsoft Video Authenticator to detect fakes.

10. Stay Updated on AI Scams: Keep learning about the latest AI and deepfake trends — scammers constantly evolve their tactics.

Bonus Tip: Never share personal videos, voice notes, or sensitive data publicly — these are often used to create deepfakes for blackmail or scams.