Romania’s central bank governor, Mugur Isarescu has found himself unwittingly associated with making false financial recommendations in a deepfake video.
The video utilized Isarescu’s image and voice and portrayed him promoting fraudulent investments.
The incident raises concerns about the rising number of deepfake attacks, which involve the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to manipulate audio and video content.
The National Bank of Romania responded to the deepfake video, telling consumers that neither Isarescu nor the central bank provides investment advice.
A central bank spokesperson expressed concern over the incident and urged citizens to exercise caution in their financial transactions.
Deepfake attacks are expected to intensify this year, the report said. Romania’s upcoming elections: parliamentary, presidential, European Union and local ballots, create a heightened risk for disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks.
Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has also faced cybersecurity challenges this year. He had to change his ID card after hackers stole a copy and posted it on the dark web.
PM’s ID document leaked in cyber attack on Romanian Parliament
