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A finance worker at a multinational firm was tricked into paying out $25 million to fraudsters using deepfake technology to pose as the company’s chief financial officer in a video conference call, according to Hong Kong police.

The elaborate scam saw the worker duped into attending a video call with what he thought were several other members of staff, but all of whom were in fact deepfake recreations, Hong Kong police said at a briefing on Friday.

“(In the) multi-person video conference, it turns out that everyone [he saw] was fake,” senior superintendent Baron Chan Shun-ching told the city’s public broadcaster RTHK.

Chan said the worker had grown suspicious after he received a message that was purportedly from the company’s UK-based chief financial officer. Initially, the worker suspected it was a phishing email, as it talked of the need for a secret transaction to be carried out.

However, the worker put aside his early doubts after the video call because other people in attendance had looked and sounded just like colleagues he recognized, Chan said.

Believing everyone else on the call was real, the worker agreed to remit a total of $200 million Hong Kong dollars – about $25.6 million, the police officer added.

The case is one of several recent episodes in which fraudsters are believed to have used deepfake technology to modify publicly available video and other footage to cheat people out of money.

At the press briefing Friday, Hong Kong police said they had made six arrests in connection with such scams.

Chan said that eight stolen Hong Kong identity cards – all of which had been reported as lost by their owners – were used to make 90 loan applications and 54 bank account registrations between July and September last year.

On at least 20 occasions, AI deepfakes had been used to trick facial recognition programs by imitating the people pictured on the identity cards, according to police.

The scam involving the fake CFO was only discovered when the employee later checked with the corporation’s head office.

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In what began as a peaceful day at the park turned into an unexpected confrontation with law enforcement. A woman found herself on the wrong side of the law after ignoring a park ranger’s instructions. This article delves into the events leading up to the incident, the details of the confrontation, and the aftermath that followed.

The Setting

The park, known for its breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity, is a popular spot for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. On the day of the incident, she decided to spend her afternoon exploring the trails and capturing the natural beauty with her camera. The park’s rules are clearly posted at various points, emphasizing the importance of staying on designated paths to protect the environment and ensure visitor safety.

 

 

As she entered the park, she had a brief interaction with a park ranger who informed her of some specific areas that were off-limits due to recent wildlife activity and ongoing conservation efforts. The ranger’s instructions were straightforward, aimed at preserving the delicate ecosystem and protecting visitors from potential hazards.

Ignoring the Instructions

Despite the clear instructions, she was deeply engrossed in her photography. The allure of capturing unique shots led her to stray from the designated paths. She reasoned that a few steps off the trail wouldn’t cause any harm, believing that her presence would go unnoticed. However, her actions were contrary to the ranger’s explicit warnings, and she ventured into a restricted area, driven by the desire to get the perfect shot.

The Incident Unfolds

It wasn’t long before the park ranger noticed her presence in the restricted zone. Concerned for her safety and the well-being of the environment, the ranger approached her and reiterated the importance of following the rules. The ranger’s tone was firm but polite, emphasizing the potential dangers and the reasons behind the restrictions.

She initially responded with surprise, claiming she hadn’t realized she was in a restricted area. However, when the ranger pointed out the signs and reiterated the earlier warning, she attempted to justify her actions by downplaying the severity of the violation. This only heightened the ranger’s concern, leading to a more serious discussion about the importance of adhering to park regulations.

The Arrest

When it became clear that she was not taking the situation seriously, the park ranger had no choice but to involve additional authorities. The formal process of arrest began, with the ranger reading her rights and explaining the charges of trespassing and ignoring lawful instructions. She was handcuffed and escorted to a waiting vehicle, where she was transported to the local police station.

 

 

 

 

 

During the arrest, she experienced a range of emotions—from disbelief and frustration to anxiety and regret. The reality of the situation began to sink in as she was processed at the station, her fingerprints taken, and a mugshot recorded. The formalities of the legal system were a stark contrast to her initial casual disregard for the park rules.

The Aftermath

The immediate consequence of her actions was a brief detainment, followed by a court appearance. She was released on bail, but the legal process was just beginning. In court, she faced potential fines and community service, depending on the judge’s ruling. The legal implications of her actions served as a sobering reminder of the importance of respecting authority and following rules.

Reactions from family, friends, and the community were mixed. Some expressed sympathy, understanding the innocent nature of her intentions, while others criticized her for the unnecessary risk and the disregard for the park’s regulations. The incident sparked a broader conversation about the importance of following rules in public spaces to ensure safety and conservation.

Reflection and Lessons Learned

Reflecting on the incident, she acknowledged the gravity of her mistake. What seemed like a minor infraction had escalated into a significant legal issue, highlighting the importance of vigilance and respect for authority. She realized that rules are in place for a reason, particularly in natural settings where the balance between human activity and environmental preservation is delicate.

She issued a public apology, expressing regret for her actions and emphasizing her newfound respect for park regulations. She also shared her story as a cautionary tale, hoping to educate others about the importance of following guidelines and respecting the work of park rangers and other authorities. The experience changed her perspective, making her more aware of her actions and their potential consequences.

Conclusion

This story serves as a reminder that even seemingly minor actions can have serious consequences. Ignoring the instructions of a park ranger, no matter how innocent it may seem, can lead to significant legal and personal ramifications. It highlights the importance of adhering to rules and respecting those in authority, particularly in public spaces where safety and conservation are paramount. Her journey from a casual park visit to a sobering legal lesson underscores the need for mindfulness and responsibility in all our actions.

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