Deepfakes on Snapchat: New Form of Fraud Threatens Users
amsterdam, maandag, 18 augustus 2025.
In August 2025, deepfakes were used to commit fraud via Snapchat. Hackers created realistic deepfake videos to deceive ‘friends’ and ask them for money. This incident highlights the growing threat of deepfakes and the need to develop technologies to prevent such fraud. According to reports, more than 18 million phishing attempts were reported in a single morning, underscoring the severity of the problem.
Deepfakes on Snapchat: New Form of Fraud Threatens Users
In August 2025, deepfakes were used to commit fraud via Snapchat. Hackers created realistic deepfake videos to deceive ‘friends’ and ask them for money. This incident highlights the growing threat of deepfakes and the need to develop technologies to prevent such fraud. According to reports, more than 18 million phishing attempts were reported in a single morning, underscoring the severity of the problem [1].
How Deepfakes Work
Deepfakes are AI-generated videos that can produce realistic images and sounds, where the faces and voices of real people are replaced by those of others. This technology has advanced significantly in recent years and is becoming increasingly accessible to a broader audience. On Snapchat, these videos are used to gain trust and manipulate victims [2].
Impact and Risks
The impact of these deepfake frauds is concerning. Not only do they lead to financial losses, but they can also cause emotional and psychological damage to victims. In August 2025, Snapchat released security updates to strengthen platform security, but many users still remain at risk due to the use of weak passwords and ignoring security advice [3][4].
Practical Tips for Users
To reduce the risk of deepfake fraud, Snapchat users can take the following steps: use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), and be cautious with unexpected messages or requests for money. Additionally, it is advisable to regularly check account activity and report any suspicious activities to Snapchat immediately [5].
Technological Countermeasures
In addition to the measures individual users can take, tech companies and governments are working together to combat deepfake fraud. Platforms such as Snapchat and YouTube have implemented automatic systems to detect and remove suspicious content. Furthermore, research and development are being encouraged to identify and prevent new methods of deepfake creation [6].
Implications for Media Literacy and Democracy
The rise of deepfakes has both positive and negative implications for media literacy and democracy. While the technology offers new possibilities for creative expression and innovation, deepfakes can also be used to spread disinformation and undermine trust in media and government institutions. It is therefore crucial that both individuals and institutions are aware of the potential threats and the importance of critical thinking about the media they consume [7].