Trend Micro’s new $2 app detects AI deepfakes and scam content

A new app called Scam Check from Trend Micro, a cybersecurity company, helps users detect AI-generated fake videos and other fraudulent content for $1.99 per month or $20 annually. The tool addresses growing concerns about deepfakes and AI-generated scams, particularly as criminals exploit OpenAI’s new Sora app and target holiday shoppers with fake websites mimicking legitimate retailers like Amazon and Walmart.

Why this matters: AI-generated fake content has become sophisticated enough that it’s “impossible to detect the difference between a bogus one and a real one with the human eye,” making detection tools increasingly essential for consumer protection.

How it works: Scam Check uses AI technology to analyze multiple types of content and identify fraudulent material in real-time.

• The app scans emails, text messages, websites, and videos, then blocks suspicious content or sends alerts to users.
• Its AI specifically looks for “visual and audio anomalies” and can analyze voice patterns to detect deepfakes.
• Detection takes just seconds, and testing showed the app correctly identified AI-generated videos as fake.

The bigger threat: Criminals are capitalizing on new AI video generation tools to create more sophisticated scams.

• OpenAI’s recently launched Sora app allows users to upload their own images and audio to create AI videos, which the company markets as a “fun feature.”
• Con artists are using AI to create fake versions of legitimate shopping websites and apps, particularly targeting holiday shoppers.
• The technology makes it nearly impossible for consumers to visually distinguish between authentic and fraudulent content.

Alternative options: Scam Check isn’t the only solution available to consumers seeking protection from AI-generated fraud.

• Similar apps exist for both Android and Apple devices, with some offering free versions.
• The growing market for detection tools reflects the increasing sophistication of AI-generated scams.