Hong Kong warns of AI-generated scams after city leader John Lee appears to back investment plan in fake video

Fake video where Chief Executive John Lee appears to back investment plan condemned by government and referred to police for investigation

Public warned not to be taken in and never to give personal information, sign up for mobile apps or click on links unless they are sure of the source

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A still from a fake video where Chief Executive John Lee appears to endorse an investment scheme. Photo: Handout

Published: 10:52pm, 9 Jan 2024Updated: 11:56pm, 9 Jan 2024

The Hong Kong government has warned members of the public not to be taken in by an online video faked with artificial intelligence (AI) where the city’s leader appears to recommend an investment plan with huge returns.

The video seemed to feature Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu endorsing the scheme – but it was on Tuesday denounced as bogus by the government.

Officials said the video was a work of fiction created with fraudulent intent, and condemned the people responsible for their attempt to cheat the public using Lee’s name and image.

“Members of the public should not be taken in by similar investment-related advertisements or promotional videos,” a spokesman said.

“They should not provide their personal information online, sign up for mobile applications or open any links.”

The government has condemned a video faked with AI of Chief Executive John Lee appearing to endorse an investment scheme. Photo: Jelly Tse

He added people should also remain vigilant and take steps to verify the authenticity of any promotions.