Is this fake deepfake video call scam a scam?
Commonly seen since 2024. Last reviewed 2026-06-05.
Check your exact messageExample only - do not act on it
Example only: [name removed] is on video confirming the request - now send the payment to proceed.
Why this message is suspicious
- Deepfake video can make a stranger look like someone you trust or an official.
- Seeing a face on screen is no longer proof of identity.
- Any on-call demand for money or codes is the red flag, not the video.
What the scammer wants
- You to act on panic or authority before you verify
- An urgent money transfer or gift-card payment
- To exploit a trusted voice or face (AI-cloned) to bypass your doubt
Common variations
- Example only: See, it's really me on camera - transfer the funds now.
- Example only: Official on video call asking you to verify with a payment.
Red flags to watch for
What to do now
- Pause - urgency and a familiar voice/face are the manipulation.
- Hang up and call the person back on their known number, or check with another family member; AI can fake a voice or face convincingly.
- Agree a family 'secret word' so you can verify real emergencies, and report attempts to your cybercrime authority.
What not to do
- Do not act on urgency, threats, or authority without verifying independently.
- Do not enter passwords, codes, or card details from a link, popup, or call.
- Do not send money or gift cards based on a voice or video alone.
If you already responded
Act quickly - the sooner you respond, the more you can limit. Find the situation that matches what you did:
If you clicked a link: Close the page; don't enter login, codes, or card details.If you entered credentials, change them and enable app-based 2FA.Watch for follow-up 'security' messages - they're part of the scam.
If you paid: Contact your bank or card provider immediately to stop or reverse the payment.Keep evidence (screenshots, references) and report it to your cybercrime authority.Don't pay anything further to 'fix', 'refund', or 'recover'.
If you shared a code, OTP, or login: Never share a one-time code, even with 'support' or a familiar-sounding caller.If you shared one, secure that account and enable app-based 2FA now.Tell your bank if the code related to a payment or banking login.
If you only clicked the link but entered nothing: close the page, don't enter anything, and watch the linked accounts for unusual activity. Full steps →
If you entered card details: contact your bank now to freeze the card and dispute charges, then watch your statement. Full steps →
If you shared an OTP or one-time code: the scammer may be logging in right now - change the password, sign out other sessions, and turn on app-based 2FA. Full steps →
If you sent money: contact your bank or payment provider immediately to try to stop or recall it, and report it. Full steps →
If you installed an app / gave remote access: disconnect from the internet, uninstall it, and change key passwords from a different, trusted device. Full steps →
If you shared passport, ID, or KYC documents: watch for identity theft, consider a credit freeze or fraud alert, and keep the evidence. Full steps →
Watch out for a second scam. People who've just lost money are often contacted again by a fake "recovery" service promising to get it back for an upfront fee. Legitimate recovery never starts with a fee paid to someone who contacted you - see recovery scams.
First time dealing with this? Start with the first 24 hours after a scam checklist and how to save evidence.
How to verify safely
Hang up and call the person back on their known number, or check with another family member; AI can fake a voice or face convincingly.
How to report it
Report through official channels for your country. Use our scam reporting directory to find the right authority, and never use phone numbers or links from the suspicious message itself. If an official link looks outdated, tell us so we can review it.
Official sources checked
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Law-enforcement alert
- AARP - Biggest scams to watch for in 2026 Medium reliability
Consumer protection article
Reviewed 2026-06-05. See our methodology for how we select sources.
Related pages
- AI voice / family emergency scam
- Phishing
- Remote access scam
- What to do if you clicked a scam link
- What to do if you shared your password
Report in your country
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Is a video call proof it's really them?
No. Deepfakes can fake live video. Verify through a separate known channel before acting.