Deepfake Incident Reveals New Threats in Social Assistance Fraud
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The world of social assistance programs has faced a new and sophisticated threat. According to Heru Sutadi, Executive Director of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Institute, a video used in a recent social assistance distribution fraud case involves the use of deepfake technology.
Understanding the Deepfake Threat
The video showcased President Prabowo Subianto and other government officials, illustrating how the perpetrators were luring their victims through social media. “Any manipulation of a person’s face, voice, or appearance qualifies as a deepfake,” Heru explained in an interview on February 10, 2025.
The Dark Side of AI
Originally designed for creative and entertainment purposes, AI deepfake technology is increasingly being misused for digital crimes. Heru pointed out, “While AI enhances our professional and creative work, it is also exploited by cybercriminals as a new modus operandi for scams and fraud.” This technology extends beyond targeting presidents; ministers, vice presidents, and celebrities are also common targets.
Public Awareness Critical
Heru highlighted the lack of public awareness about deepfake crimes as a significant concern. He emphasized, “This new form of deception catches many off guard, often leading to numerous victims and potentially more in the future.” The main challenge lies in distinguishing between authentic and manipulated content, making it crucial for individuals to remain vigilant.
The Case of Social Assistance Fraud
Separately, the Directorate of Cyber Crime of the Indonesian National Police identified JS, a 25-year-old suspect, in the social assistance distribution fraud case. JS posted a manipulated video of President Prabowo on his Instagram account, @indoberbagi2025, attracting approximately 9,399 followers.
The video invited the public to register as recipients of the social assistance program. JS successfully tricked about 100 individuals from 20 provinces, with most being from East Java, Central Java, and Papua. The scam garnered him Rp 65 million until December 2024.
The Motive Behind Deepfake Crimes
Heru clarified that deepfake crimes are primarily motivated by financial gain. “The perpetrators aim to deceive, ultimately seeking monetary rewards,” he stated. This underscores the severe risk deepfakes pose in financial and personal security.
Why Everyone Should Be Cautious
Given the increasing sophistication of deepfake technology, it is essential to approach all messages and video calls with caution. Heru urged everyone, “Do not trust a video or message from someone pretending to be a president, artist, or anyone else, as AI technology can produce convincing deepfakes.” Staying informed and critical is the best defense against such deceit.
Next Steps
The experts recommend increased education and awareness about deepfake technology. This includes recognizing the signs of manipulation and verifying information through official channels. By staying informed, the public can better protect themselves from falling victim to these sophisticated digital crimes.
Call to Action
In light of these revelations, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and informed about deepfake technology. Share this information with your network to spread awareness. Let us work together to combat this new threat. If you have any information or stories related to deepfake crime, please share them in the comments below.
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