AI Celebrity Deepfakes on TikTok Fuel Scam Ads Promoting Fake Rewards Programs

Scammers are exploiting AI-generated deepfake videos featuring celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Rihanna to promote fraudulent services on TikTok, according to Copyleaks, an authentication company specializing in AI content detection.

The deceptive advertisements typically depict celebrities in staged interview settings—including red carpets, podcasts, or talk shows—where real footage is manipulated using AI technology. Many of these ads falsely claim users can earn money by watching TikTok content and providing feedback through rewards programs.

While some ads incorporate TikTok’s official branding, users are ultimately redirected to third-party websites that request sensitive personal information, putting them at risk of identity theft or financial fraud.

How the Scam Operates

In one example, a highly realistic AI-generated avatar of Taylor Swift appears in an ad, urging viewers to participate in a fake rewards program. The video mimics a legitimate interview or promotional appearance, making it difficult for users to distinguish between authentic and fabricated content.

Copyleaks noted that these scams often target unsuspecting users by leveraging the trust associated with well-known celebrities. The company emphasized that the ads are designed to appear credible, often mimicking the format of legitimate TikTok promotions.

TikTok’s Response and User Risks

While TikTok’s official branding is sometimes used in these ads, the platform does not endorse or operate these third-party services. Users who engage with these promotions are redirected to external sites that may harvest personal data or install malicious software.

Copyleaks has flagged these deepfake scams as part of a growing trend of AI-driven fraud on social media platforms. The company urges users to verify the authenticity of celebrity endorsements and avoid sharing personal information with unverified third-party services.