Redditors Uncover Deepfake YouTube Scam Involving Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse
Reddit users have discovered a deepfake video featuring Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, in which he asks XRP holders to transfer their coins to a specific address with the promise of doubling their investment. The video, titled “Calling All Ripple Holders Immediately,” was shared on Reddit and has been on YouTube for over a month despite requests for its removal.
In the video, a deepfaked version of Garlinghouse invites viewers to participate in an “XRP X2” event and claims that Ripple will double the amount of XRP sent to a provided address. The video has garnered over 20,000 views, even though it is unlisted and unsearchable on YouTube.
Similar Scams and Google’s Response
Other Redditors reported encountering similar deepfake ads on YouTube, and some even shared links to the videos. Despite the obvious falseness of the ad, Google has refused to take it down, stating that it does not violate its policies. Users suspect that automated bots are responsible for content moderation, making it easy for scammers to bypass detection.
Garlinghouse’s Warnings and Legal Action
This is not the first time Garlinghouse’s likeness has been used in deepfake scams. He previously warned XRP holders about fraudulent schemes and giveaways involving his image. In 2020, both Garlinghouse and Ripple took legal action against YouTube for enabling scammers to promote deceptive schemes. The case was resolved in 2021 with an agreement to collaborate in preventing such scams.
Hot Take: Protect Yourself from Deepfake Scams
Deepfake scams continue to be a concern in the crypto community, with scammers exploiting the trust and credibility of influential figures like Brad Garlinghouse. It is crucial to remain vigilant and verify information from official sources. Don’t trust blindly, and be cautious when engaging with videos or QR codes that promise unrealistic returns. By staying informed and skeptical, you can protect yourself from falling victim to deepfake scams.
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