In one example, a video featured a digitally altered version of Zuckerberg stating, “This is not a scam, believe me,” while showing a fabricated ID.
Paul now wants to warn others about these increasingly convincing scams that can appear across social media platforms. “They’re asking for bank details, credit card info—everything,” he said.
Experts say this type of scam is becoming more advanced. Dr. Jennifer Williams, an artificial intelligence specialist at the University of Southampton, explained that these tactics are essentially modern versions of phishing scams—using emotional manipulation and sophisticated tools like AI-generated images or voices.
“These scams are designed to feel personal,” Dr. Williams said. “They often use low-resolution or altered images and emotionally charged language like ‘don’t be afraid’ or ‘trust me’ to catch people off guard.”
She advises people to look for red flags such as unusual grammar, requests for money or gift cards, pixelated media, or urgent emotional appeals.
While Paul regrets what happened, he hopes his experience will help others stay alert and think twice before engaging with unverified messages, no matter how convincing they seem.
Online Safety Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Always verify identities through official, trusted sources.
- Never share financial or personal information over unsecured platforms.
- Be cautious with anyone who asks for gift cards, money, or personal data online.
- When in doubt, report suspicious activity to the platform or authorities.
Paul’s story is a reminder that online scams are becoming more sophisticated—and that anyone can be vulnerable. By staying informed and cautious, users can better protect themselves in today’s fast-evolving digital world.