Scammers in the Dominican Republic are increasingly using sophisticated deception methods that combine artificial intelligence with social engineering to steal personal data, bank account information, and access to victims’ digital lives.
For months, cybercriminals have been creating fake news segments and simulated interviews using AI tools. These deepfakes often feature well-known journalists and public figures promoting supposed investment opportunities. In recent days, another alarming tactic has emerged: false claims about the leak of hundreds of intimate videos illegally recorded in a cabin located at kilometer 12 in Haina.
Radio programs, news pages, and influencers have spread information claiming that explicit videos were recorded without consent in this location. Some reports even allege that the Dirección Central de Investigaciones Criminales (Dicrim) launched an operation in Haina and arrested several individuals. All of this is completely false. The videos do not exist. This is simply a new phishing strategy designed to trick people into revealing sensitive personal information. listindiario.com
The scam typically spreads via TikTok, where users are urged to check if they appear in the supposed leaked content. Victims are directed to enter a specific keyword on Telegram to search for the videos. Once there, multiple fake accounts appear, offering links that prompt users to download an “app” or log in with their personal social media accounts.
According to technology expert Isaac Ramírez, these links are highly dangerous: “As soon as you enter, they ask you to download an application or authenticate using your social networks. If you do either, you are simply giving criminals access to your banking history, social media accounts, and your entire digital life.” instagram.com
Fake Interviews and Investment Scams
This is not the only method being used. For several months, scammers have also produced AI-generated deepfakes featuring prominent figures. One particularly concerning video that alarmed the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) shows Governor Héctor Valdez Albizu being “interviewed” by journalist Edith Febles. In the fake video, he supposedly recommends investing through a specific online platform.
The Central Bank issued an official statement clarifying that the video is entirely fabricated and part of a network of financial cybercriminals aiming to defraud people and steal both money and personal data.
The institution strongly warned the public: “Do not access websites claiming to be investment platforms. Do not share your personal data or payment methods with unverified third parties who contact you by phone, email, or any other means. This is a scam designed to take control of your money.” dominicantoday.com
These fake videos frequently circulate on Facebook and YouTube.
Fake News Pages Mimicking Real Media
Another common tactic involves creating counterfeit news websites that closely resemble legitimate Dominican media outlets. Scammers use eye-catching headlines — often related to intimate scandals or personal lives — to lure users into clicking malicious links.
Listín Diario has reported receiving daily complaints from readers about these fabricated articles published on fake pages created by cybercriminals. In recent examples, scammers have exploited the names of public figures such as Ruby Pérez and Ramón Alburquerque, publishing false stories about supposed fortunes or investments left after their deaths. listindiario.com
How to Protect Yourself
Experts recommend the following precautions:
- Never click on suspicious links promising access to “leaked” intimate videos or exclusive interviews.
- Avoid downloading unknown applications or logging into platforms via third-party requests.
- Verify all news directly from official and reputable sources.
- Be extremely cautious with investment offers promoted by public figures on social media — always check with the relevant institutions (such as the Central Bank).
- Report suspicious accounts and links to the platforms and authorities.
These evolving cyber scams demonstrate how criminals are rapidly adapting to new technologies like artificial intelligence to exploit human curiosity and fear. Staying vigilant and skeptical of sensational content shared on social media remains the best defense.
