“Shallow fake” scam aims to trick you and your friends on Facebook [Video]

INDIANAPOLIS — Scammers are now using a new twist on a growing scam— the “shallow fake.”

WRTV Investigates has told you about bad actors using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create “deep fake” videos, which is essentially using computer technology to create phony videos of celebrities or other people.

WRTV Investigates has learned a new version is popping up, the “shallow fake”, in which the scammer uses your own videos to pretend to be you.

It happened to Leonard Patterson of Indianapolis.

“It’s really sad that someone would go to this length to take advantage of people,” said Patterson.

Patterson uses Facebook for keeping in touch with friends, family and for growing his businesses.

“I primarily use it to promote the band that I’m in,” said Patterson.

His band, Living Proof, performs all over the state.

“I was multitasking at a show on stage and had a message from a friend,” said Patterson.

Patterson clicked on a link he shouldn’t have and a hacker took control of Patterson’s Facebook account …