AI News Monitor

A new report has revealed that the proliferation of affordable artificial intelligence (AI) tools is fueling a surge in biometric fraud across Africa. Fraudsters are leveraging AI to create fake documents, voices, and images, enabling identity theft and financial crimes. The report, released by U.S.-based company Smile ID, highlights a worrying trend of document forgery, deepfakes, and phishing schemes targeting vulnerable populations, particularly in low-literacy regions.

One victim, Japhet Ndubi, a Kenyan journalist, fell prey to biometric fraud in July 2024 after losing his phone. Despite replacing his SIM card and purchasing a new device, Ndubi was shocked to discover unauthorized transactions made using his fingerprints. “I saw money was sent to a certain number, and I was surprised because I had my phone with me,” Ndubi recounted. Fraudsters not only drained his mobile banking account but also took out a loan in his name, leaving him with months of debt. Despite recovering his phone, authorities failed to make any arrests.

Biometric fraud involves the theft of unique personal characteristics, such as fingerprints or voice patterns, to impersonate individuals and access their devices or financial accounts. Smile ID’s report warns that such crimes are escalating, with fraudsters exploiting stolen data to create fraudulent bank accounts for money laundering.

In Ghana, Joshua Kumah fell victim to a phishing scam after receiving a fake text claiming money had been transferred to his account. “I followed the instructions without paying attention to the details,” Kumah said. “By the time I realized it was a scam, it was too late. I lost control of my SIM card and the money in my account.”

The report underscores the need for enhanced security measures. Some authorities and businesses now require physical presence and valid identification to verify identities. Meanwhile, many Kenyans, like Ndubi, are losing trust in mobile banking apps. “I’ve stopped using the Mpesa app altogether,” Ndubi admitted.

As biometric fraud continues to rise, experts urge individuals to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to their banks and telecom providers. The report calls for stronger regulatory frameworks and public awareness campaigns to combat the growing threat of AI-driven fraud in Africa.