SMRTR TechDec 18, 2025Wired

The Ultra-Realistic AI Face Swapping Platform Driving Romance Scams

SMRTR summary

The Chinese AI app Haotian has generated $3.9 million selling ultra-realistic face-swapping technology that allows scammers to conduct convincing video calls during romance and investment frauds. The platform, which adjusts up to 50 facial features and integrates with WhatsApp and WeChat, has been marketing to "pig butchering" scammers in Southeast Asia. Nearly half of Haotian's payments came through a US-sanctioned marketplace, with cryptocurrency analysis showing funds directly linked to fraud operations, highlighting how deepfake technology is increasingly weaponized for cybercrime.

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