Episode 342

Fraud News Roundup: AI Brad Pitt, Identity theft and International Scams

Published on: 30th January, 2025

Fraudology is presented by Persona.

The latest episode of Fraudology Podcast with Karisse Hendrick offers a gripping exploration of cutting-edge fraud schemes threatening individuals and institutions alike. Karisse kicks things off by dissecting the headline-grabbing Brad Pitt AI scam, where a woman lost nearly a million dollars to fraudsters using artificially generated images of the actor.

Drawing on insights from fraud expert Frank McKenna, Hendrick reveals the surprisingly accessible technology behind these convincing deep fakes. The episode then tackles a heartbreaking new trend - identity thieves exploiting wildfire victims by filing false FEMA claims in their names. Hendrick provides crucial advice for protecting oneself from this despicable practice.

The final segment delves into a fascinating case study of a Chinese fraud ring's evolution from local identity theft to international organized crime. This eye-opening investigation, based on research by fraud analyst Scott Ellison, traces the group's journey from underground gambling dens to sophisticated vehicle theft operations with cartel connections. Throughout the episode, Karisse weaves in expert analysis and practical insights, making complex fraud schemes accessible to listeners.

Don't miss this informative and engaging deep dive into the world of digital fraud - subscribe and listen now!

Fraudology is hosted by Karisse Hendrick, a fraud fighter with decades of experience advising hundreds of the biggest ecommerce companies in the world on fraud, chargebacks, and other forms of abuse impacting a company's bottom line.

Connect with her on LinkedIn

She brings her experience, expertise, and extensive network of experts to this podcast semi weekly, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

All Episodes Previous Episode
Show artwork for Fraudology Podcast with Karisse Hendrick

About the Podcast

Fraudology Podcast with Karisse Hendrick
Join Fraud Fighter Karisse Hendrick twice a week for deep dive interviews and weekly fraud news.
If you work in online fraud prevention, chances are you've caught the "bug". The bug that makes you passionate about identifying & preventing cybercriminals from getting away with stealing from your company, or your client's companies. Most people who have made cyber-fraud their career have the perfect balance of analytical and social skills, a strong sense of justice and the curiosity that will drive you to go down every path of information until you "crack the case".

Just like sociology is the study of social behavior, and psychology is the study of human behavior, Fraudology is the science and study of fraud.

On the Fraudology podcast, long-time online fraud expert, Karisse Hendrick will dive into all areas of Fraudology from the perspective of a fraud-fighter. With guests ranging from former cybercriminals to fraud-fighters at Fortune 500 companies to law enforcement and others, you will no doubt be entertained, while learning a lot about fraud & other forms of abuse prevention!

Subscribe to be alerted when a new episode is out and please rate & review where you can, to help others find this new & unique podcast!

About your host

Profile picture for Karisse Hendrick

Karisse Hendrick