Scammers use AI-generated video of King in fraud scheme

New Straits Times

10-07-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: A video using artificial intelligence (AI) to create a hyper-realistic portrayal of Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has surfaced on social media to lure people into fraudulent investment schemes.
Set against a newsroom backdrop, the video appears convincing, as the host introduces the guest as "Ibrahim Iskandar of Johor".
With the opening remark "a real chance to change lives", the guest claims that one can earn up to RM85,000 from an investment of RM1,000.
He said that investments through the 'government-approved platform' can be made using a phone, tablet or laptop by predicting market movements to generate a stable income.
He said a group of volunteers had earned RM75,000 each in the first month of investing through the platform.
"I say this with complete confidence, if you don't make at least RM75,000 in your first month, I will personally refund your RM1,000.
"As of today, 100 per cent of participants have made a profit," he said, adding that no special knowledge is required.
To sign up, investors only need to visit the website, fill in their details, and a personal consultant would then contact them with further instructions, the guest added.
The New Straits Times has reached out to police for comment.
MCA's Public Services and Complaints Department head Datuk Seri Michael Chong has warned the public against such tactics, which use deepfake videos featuring prominent figures, including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, tycoon Tan Sri Robert Kuok, former chief justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, and Capital A Bhd chief executive officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, to promote fake investment and get-rich-quick schemes.
He said many victims had been convinced to invest after watching fake promotional videos that appeared to show genuine endorsements from these individuals.