CICC warns against deepfake using Marcos to promote online trading
A deepfake video falsely presenting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as promoting online trading has made the rounds online, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center warned.
The fabricated clip was shared by a page named "Inquirer PH Insider," which was formerly operating as "Deborah Webb," as per the agency. The post also included a link to an unrelated e-commerce site.
"Upon technical review, the CICC determined that the video makes use of deepfake technology, utilizing AI-based manipulation to alter visual elements and simulate the President’s endorsement," the CICC said.
A screenshot shared by the agency showed Marcos interviewed by the press in front of what appeared to be a Tesla sign.
The video bore the headline, "New platform Elon Musk together with the government of the Philippines."
"This form of digital deception preys on public trust by blending the likeness of a national leader with familiar media branding, in an attempt to drive engagement with what may be a fraudulent scheme disguised as a financial opportunity," the agency said.
The CICC has coordinated with social media platforms to request the removal of the content, along with other related posts.
In March, the Marcos administration formed a National Deepfake Task Force and rolled out an AI-powered detection tool to combat disinformation amid the upcoming elections.
Marcos' likeness has previously been used in deepfake videos. In July 2024, a video of the president allegedly doing drugs was spread on social media.
An investigation by the Philippine National Police found that AI was used for the video. Forensic analysis of the clip also revealed that the man appearing to do drugs is not Marcos.
