Deepfake Technology in Social Engineering: Threats, Detection and Defence Strategies

Abstract

Big developments in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) have significantly improved deepfake technology, allowing individuals to create realistic synthetic media. As a result, deepfakes have become a very effective tool for social engineers by allowing them to accurately impersonate colleagues and authority figures to gain the trust of individuals and manipulate them. High-profile cases such as the Arup scam and the UAE fraud case highlight how attackers are leveraging these techniques in real-world scenarios and the devastating financial consequences they bring. In response, several technical detection tools have been developed, many of which rely on deep learning techniques. However, these should not be used in isolation. An effective defence strategy requires organisations to supplement these technological tools with other strategies, such as employee training, awareness campaigns and secure security policies. This creates layers of security, capable of mitigating risks posed by deepfake social engineering.