For years, organisations have invested heavily in protecting themselves against cyberattacks and online misinformation. They are now confronting a different challenge. The question is no longer simply whether false information will circulate, but whether audiences can distinguish authentic corporate communications from increasingly sophisticated fabrications.
A chief executive appears to endorse an investment platform. A central bank governor seems to announce market-sensitive information. A finance director invites investors to join a WhatsApp group promising exceptional returns. The video is convincing, the voice sounds authentic and the branding appears legitimate. None of it happened.
South African businesses are already dealing with the consequences. The South African Reserve Bank has warned the public about AI-generated videos that falsely portray Governor Lesetja Kganyago involved in televised confrontations with media personalities, and fake content promoting fraudulent investment schemes.
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority has repeatedly warned that fraudsters are increasingly using deepfake videos and the identities of well-known public figures – including Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, President Cyril Ramaphosa and businessman Patrice Motsepe – to lend credibility to fraudulent investment schemes.
