Cybercrime Southeast Europe Newsletter No. 36

Dear Clients,

We would like to inform you that there have been no new developments in the cases where we have filed criminal charges this week. Our office remains in constant contact with the prosecutor’s office, and you will be promptly informed about any further steps and developments in these matters.

Given the increasing use of advanced technologies, we want to inform you of a serious threat that is becoming more prevalent in the Balkans. This threat involves “deepfake” technology, which uses artificial intelligence to create highly convincing fake video recordings, voices, and images. While this technology was initially associated with the film industry, it has now become a key tool for cybercriminals, who use it for deception and fraud.

How do “deepfake” scams work?

“Deepfake” technology enables the creation of fake video recordings or voice imitations that appear completely realistic. Scammers often use these techniques to deceive victims, making fake contacts with celebrities or creating false business opportunities. These scams are especially common in romantic scams and fake investment schemes.

In the Balkans, one of the most recent examples comes from Croatia, where criminals used “deepfake” technology to create fake video recordings and voices of well-known public figures such as actors and politicians. By using these recordings, scammers managed to convince victims to invest in fake projects associated with these figures. These scams not only affect celebrities but also extend to political manipulations and deceiving ordinary citizens.

The Growing Risk

When scammers use “deepfake” technology, the consequences can be catastrophic. Financial losses in some cases have reached millions of dollars. These scams know no borders—they are happening across the Balkans, and the victims are not just individuals, but also large corporations. While this technology is beneficial in many industries, it also presents significant risks to society. New protective measures and ongoing education about this threat are becoming essential as “deepfake” scams grow more dangerous and sophisticated.

How to Protect Yourself?

• Be cautious: If a well-known person or someone from a reputable company requests an urgent financial transaction, make sure to verify their authenticity.
• Use secure channels: Confirm the identity of the person you are contacting via phone call or video call.
• Verify information: Before taking any action, research the person or the offer.
• Never share sensitive information: Do not share personal or banking details through insecure channels.

Conclusion

The best protection against “deepfake” scams is vigilance and critical thinking. In a world where technology is becoming more powerful, our task is to stay informed, verify sources, and avoid falling for tricks that can lead to significant losses. Be alert, check all claims, and do not let modern scammers deceive you behind digital masks.

Kind Regards,

Zoran Miljakovic

Attorney at Law