Spanish National Police arrested multiple suspects in an AI‑enabled investment scam that used deepfake video ads and targeted outreach to steal millions from victims. Authorities said the ring frequently recontacted victims posing as investigators or recovery agents to extract additional payments.

Spanish law enforcement announced the dismantling of an AI‑powered investment fraud ring responsible for deceiving victims with deepfake advertisements and algorithmic targeting, resulting in arrests and the seizure of roughly $20 million in alleged proceeds. Investigators described how operators produced falsified video testimonials and celebrity endorsements to lend credibility to sham crypto investment platforms, then used personalized outreach—sometimes impersonating officials or recovery agents—to pressure victims into further payments. The probe uncovered coordinated teams handling social engineering, technical production of deepfake media, payment processing via layered accounts, and rapid conversion of fiat into stablecoins to move funds offshore. Police highlighted patterns of repeat victim contact and manipulation designed to maximize extraction before victims reported losses. Authorities credited improved forensic capabilities in media authentication, payment tracing, and international cooperation for enabling the takedown, and warned that evolving generative‑AI tools make timely reporting and platform vigilance critical. Officials indicated ongoing inquiries to identify facilitators, advertise networks, and avenues for victim restitution.