The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has issued an urgent public warning regarding the circulation of fake artificial intelligence-generated videos and fraudulent advertisements that impersonate the institution's Governor. As AI technology becomes increasingly sophisticated and accessible, financial regulators across the globe are grappling with a new wave of digital deception — and Sri Lanka is no exception. The CBSL is urging all members of the public to exercise extreme caution when encountering online content that appears to feature senior banking officials endorsing financial products, investment schemes, or money-making opportunities.
What Is Happening and Why It Matters
Fraudsters are leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools to create convincing deepfake videos that feature the likeness and voice of the CBSL Governor. These fabricated videos are being circulated across social media platforms and online advertising networks, often promoting dubious investment schemes, cryptocurrency platforms, or get-rich-quick programs that promise extraordinary returns. The realistic nature of AI-generated content makes it increasingly difficult for ordinary consumers to distinguish between genuine official communications and sophisticated digital fraud.
This type of scam is particularly dangerous because it exploits the public's trust in authoritative institutions. When a video appears to show a central bank governor endorsing a financial product, many people naturally assume it carries a degree of legitimacy. Scammers are deliberately capitalizing on this psychological tendency, putting unsuspecting individuals at serious financial risk. Victims who invest money based on these fraudulent endorsements may lose their savings with little to no recourse for recovery.
Official Statement From the Central Bank of Sri Lanka
The CBSL has made it unequivocally clear that neither the Governor nor any other official of the institution has endorsed, promoted, or participated in any private investment scheme, cryptocurrency platform, or financial product through social media videos or online advertisements. The bank has categorically stated that any video or advertisement suggesting otherwise is entirely fabricated and should be treated as fraudulent content.
The Central Bank has also emphasized that it does not solicit investments from the general public through social media channels or third-party online platforms. Any communication claiming to represent the CBSL in such a manner should be immediately reported to the relevant authorities. The institution is working closely with law enforcement agencies and digital platform providers to identify, report, and remove fraudulent content as swiftly as possible.
How to Identify Fake AI-Generated Videos
As deepfake technology continues to advance, identifying manipulated videos is becoming more challenging. However, there are several warning signs that the public can look out for to protect themselves from falling victim to these scams.
First, pay close attention to unnatural facial movements, inconsistent lip-syncing, or unusual blinking patterns in videos featuring public figures. AI-generated content, while increasingly realistic, often contains subtle visual anomalies that a careful viewer can detect. Second, be highly skeptical of any video that promotes a financial product or investment opportunity, especially one that promises unusually high returns with minimal risk. Legitimate financial institutions do not advertise investment schemes through social media videos featuring their senior officials.
Third, always verify information through official channels. If you encounter a video or advertisement claiming to feature the CBSL Governor or any other official, visit the Central Bank's official website or contact their official communication channels directly to confirm the authenticity of the content. Fourth, check the source of the video carefully. Fraudulent content is typically shared through unofficial social media accounts, suspicious websites, or paid advertisements that lead to unverified platforms.
Steps to Take If You Encounter Suspicious Content
If you come across a video or advertisement that you suspect is a deepfake impersonating a CBSL official, there are several important steps you should take immediately. Do not engage with the content, click on any embedded links, or provide any personal or financial information through platforms associated with the suspicious material. Report the content directly to the social media platform where it appears, using the built-in reporting tools available on sites such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
Additionally, report the incident to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka through their official contact channels and inform the Sri Lanka Police's cybercrime division. Spreading awareness among family members, friends, and colleagues — particularly those who may be less digitally literate — is also a crucial step in preventing further victimization within communities.
A Growing Global Threat
Sri Lanka's experience is part of a broader global trend in which AI-generated deepfakes are being used to perpetrate financial fraud. Central banks and financial regulators in countries including the United Kingdom, Singapore, and the United States have issued similar warnings in recent months, underscoring the urgent need for public awareness and stronger regulatory frameworks around AI-generated content.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, both individuals and institutions must remain vigilant. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka's warning serves as a timely reminder that in the digital age, critical thinking and source verification are essential tools for protecting one's financial wellbeing. Stay informed, stay cautious, and always rely on verified official sources before making any financial decisions.