Six people have been arrested in Hong Kong for using stolen identity cards and AI face swap technology to defraud banks and financial institutions.
The suspects, aged 28 to 50, are accused of using the stolen identity cards to open 54 bank accounts and apply for 90 loans. Four of the loan applications were approved, totaling HK$200,000 (US$25,000).
When required to undergo facial recognition, the suspects used AI face swap technology to change their faces to match the identity card photos. In one case, this allowed them to successfully obtain a loan.
The suspects also used the stolen identity cards to register for over 30 prepaid SIM cards and send over 7,200 phishing messages. In one case, a victim fell for the phishing message and gave the suspects their credit card information, which was later used to make purchases.
Police seized a missing identity card, 13 forged identity cards, some computers, phones, false documents, and tools used to forge the identity cards during the operation.
The suspects have been charged with fraud, forgery, and theft. They are currently in police custody.
This case is a reminder of the dangers of identity theft and the importance of protecting your personal information. If you think your identity may have been stolen, you should contact your bank and credit card companies immediately. You should also report the crime to the police.