American pop star Taylor Swift has emerged as the most targeted public figure in deepfake scams worldwide, according to a new report by cybersecurity firm McAfee.
The report reveals that deepfakes featuring Swift are no longer limited to inappropriate content. Scammers have increasingly used AI-generated versions of her face and voice to promote fake brand endorsements, advertisements and fraudulent links designed to deceive users.
According to McAfee, cybercriminals are creating AI-powered replicas of celebrities to push bogus giveaways, cryptocurrency schemes and beauty products, often leading users to malware-infected websites and online fraud networks.
Survey findings included in the report show that 72 percent of Americans have come across fake celebrity endorsements online, while 39 percent admitted clicking on such links. One in ten victims reported losing money or personal data, with an average financial loss of 525 dollars.
The report noted that after Taylor Swift, Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson was the second-most targeted celebrity. Others affected include Jenna Ortega, Sydney Sweeney, Sabrina Carpenter and Tom Cruise, all of whom have seen their identities exploited by deepfake-driven scams.
McAfee’s findings highlight the growing threat posed by AI-generated impersonation and the urgent need for stronger digital literacy and safeguards to protect users from such rapidly evolving fraud techniques.
