Jumhoory Party (JP) leader and Maamigili MP Qasim Ibrahim has issued a warning to the public about scams being carried out using AI-generated deepfake videos and photos of him.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Qasim revealed that these fabricated videos, which include both visuals and audio, are being circulated across social media platforms. The videos falsely portray him endorsing financial schemes, such as offshore trading and quick-return investments, allegedly facilitated through the Bank of Maldives (BML).
Describing the deepfakes as a cowardly modern scam tactic, Qasim urged the public to remain cautious and avoid being misled. He noted that these fake videos are being widely shared on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and through messaging platforms like Viber and WhatsApp.
“I sincerely urge everyone to refrain from sharing AI-generated content, including these video clips, on social media and messaging platforms,” he stated.
Qasim also shared that some individuals had directly sent him these videos, believing them to be genuine due to their highly realistic appearance. He reiterated that the videos are entirely fake and not to be trusted.
The Maldives has recently seen an increase in scams employing sophisticated tactics to deceive and defraud people. Earlier, Maldives Hajj Corporation’s Managing Director Mohamed Shakeel also cautioned the public about fraudulent calls made in his name.
Qasim’s warning highlights the growing misuse of AI technologies to perpetrate scams, emphasizing the need for vigilance and public awareness.