UAE Minister of Economy Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri has issued a strong warning after several AI-generated deepfake videos surfaced online showing him allegedly endorsing investment opportunities. The minister called the clips “completely fake” and urged people not to fall for these deceptive schemes.
In a statement, Al Marri said, “I never did that in my life, and I never will.” He emphasized that the circulating videos are fraudulent and created using artificial intelligence (AI) to manipulate his image and voice, making it appear as though he is promoting financial products or asking for investments.
Deepfake Scams on the Rise
The warning comes amid a global surge in deepfake scams—AI-generated content that imitates real individuals to promote fraudulent activities. These videos often use advanced technology to create realistic facial movements and speech patterns, making it difficult for the public to distinguish between real and fake footage.
The minister highlighted that such scams not only damage reputations but also pose serious financial risks to unsuspecting investors. He urged citizens and residents to rely only on verified government platforms and official announcements for investment or economic information.
Government Action and Public Awareness
The UAE government has been stepping up efforts to combat online fraud and misinformation, especially as the country advances its digital economy strategy. Authorities have repeatedly warned that cybercriminals are using deepfake technology to impersonate officials, mislead the public, and promote false investment schemes.
Al Marri stressed that the UAE’s focus remains on building a trusted, innovation-driven economy and that protecting citizens from digital fraud is an essential part of this mission.
How to Stay Safe from Deepfake Scams
– Verify official sources: Always confirm announcements through UAE government portals or verified social media accounts.
– Look for inconsistencies: Check for unnatural speech, mismatched lip movements, or distorted visuals that may signal AI manipulation.
– Report fake content: If you encounter a suspicious video or investment offer, report it to authorities or the platform hosting it.
– Be cautious with investment claims: Avoid any scheme promising unrealistic returns or claiming endorsement from a government official.
A Call for Responsible AI Use
As AI tools become more accessible, the UAE minister’s warning highlights the growing importance of digital literacy and ethical AI use. Deepfakes, when misused, can erode trust and cause real-world harm—especially in the financial sector.
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