A cybersecurity expert has raised concerns about Google’s lack of effective measures to prevent deepfake attacks targeting cryptocurrencies, particularly involving Bitcoin and prominent figures like Elon Musk.
Recently, scammers used a doctored video of Elon Musk on YouTube to deceive unsuspecting cryptocurrency users, convincing them to deposit Bitcoin (BTC) on various websites. The fraudulent scheme attracted hundreds of thousands of views, and the extent of potential losses is still unknown.
Founder of the National Cybersecurity Center (NCC), Michael Marcotte, expressed in a press release to crypto.news that these scammers are not only targeting Elon Musk but also undermining trust in Bitcoin among consumers.
Moreover, hackers utilized Russian domain registrars for the fraudulent crypto platforms, promising to double the funds of users. Marcotte raised concerns about the intent and source of this unconventional attack strategy.
Marcotte emphasized that Google should take more proactive measures to prevent such scams. He pointed out that scammers were able to operate on YouTube using a fake Tesla account for hours without being detected, highlighting a failure in Google’s cybersecurity protocols.
Users have previously reported similar fraudulent activities that have resulted in significant crypto losses due to Google’s lax approach. Despite some legal actions taken by Google against scammers, there is a growing consensus among users and experts that more needs to be done to address these security threats.
In conclusion, Marcotte emphasized the need for the industry to wake up to the increasing threat of deepfake attacks and the blurred line between reality and deception. The recent scam involving Elon Musk should serve as a warning for the entire industry to enhance cybersecurity measures.