PIB Warns Of AI-Generated Investment Scam Using Fake Videos Of Nirmala Sitharaman

A fresh wave of online financial fraud has come to light after the Press Information Bureau’s fact-check unit issued a warning over a fake investment scam circulating on social media platforms, particularly Facebook.

The misleading campaign uses artificial intelligence–generated and digitally manipulated videos of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to lure unsuspecting users.

According to the PIB Fact Check alert, sponsored advertisements have been falsely portraying the Finance Minister as endorsing an investment scheme.

The government has categorically denied any such association, stating that neither the Finance Minister nor any official authority has promoted or supported the scheme in question.

The PIB explained that fraudsters are increasingly using advanced AI tools to create realistic videos that appear authentic.

By superimposing fabricated audio and visuals, scammers attempt to gain public trust and encourage people to invest money under false pretences.

Officials warned that such techniques make scams harder to detect at first glance.

The fact-check unit clarified that all claims made in these advertisements are entirely false and aimed solely at financial exploitation.

Government Urges Public to Exercise Caution

In response to the scam, the government has urged citizens to exercise extreme caution while engaging with online financial advertisements.

Authorities advised people to verify investment-related information only through official government portals or authorised regulatory bodies such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

Authorities also cautioned users against clicking on suspicious links shared through sponsored posts or unfamiliar pages, noting that these links often lead to data theft or unauthorised transactions.

The PIB further stressed that individuals should never share sensitive details, including bank account information, passwords, or one-time passwords (OTPs), on unverified platforms. Such information can be misused for identity theft and financial fraud within minutes.

Authorities encouraged citizens to report fake advertisements and manipulated videos directly on the respective social media platforms to help prevent their spread.

With AI technology becoming more accessible, officials warned that similar scams could increase in frequency.

The government reiterated the importance of digital awareness and responsible online behaviour to counter emerging cyber threats.

The PIB concluded its advisory by urging the public to remain alert, stay informed, and avoid falling prey to AI-driven financial scams that exploit trust in public figures.

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