Technology

When clicks turn into scams on Facebook ads

Published

6 months ago

June 11, 2025

Press Room

When clicks turn into scams on Facebook ads

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Scam ads on Facebook have evolved beyond the days of misspelled headlines and sketchy product photos.

Today, many are powered by artificial intelligence, fueled by deepfake technology and distributed at scale through Facebook’s own ad system.

From fake crypto endorsements by celebrities to malware disguised as video game betas, the landscape of digital scams is smarter, faster and more dangerous than ever.

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Facebook login page displayed on a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How Facebook scam ads have evolved with AI and deepfakes

Scammers used to rely on low-effort clickbait, but that era is over. Now, sophisticated schemes are leveraging AI-generated content. Technology is being used to create convincing videos of celebrities endorsing fake products or services. These ads exploit the trust users place in public figures and the perceived legitimacy of Facebook’s advertising platform. These tools can mimic a person’s appearance and voice with alarming accuracy, making it challenging for users to discern real from fake. And these tools are no longer out of reach. Scammers use a mix of freely available AI generators and private networks to mass-produce scam campaigns that look more real than ever.

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Real examples of Facebook scam ads using celebrity deepfakes

On Reddit, users have posted screenshots of bizarre scam ads that made it through Facebook’s filters:

One features an AI-generated video of Kelly Clarkson promoting a suspicious cash giveaway. There are reportedly over 20 accounts using variations of the name “Kelly Clarkson Live.” These ads ask users to comment “Christmas” to receive free money, then instruct them to contact a WhatsApp number to claim their prize, which is a common tactic used to harvest personal information or initiate payment scams.

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Screenshots of bizarre Facebook scam ads (Reddit)

Another uses Billie Eilish’s face to endorse a knockoff shopping site. The design mimics standard e-commerce ads, making it easy to fall for, especially for fans or younger users.

Screenshots of Facebook scam ads (Reddit)

How AI tools and deepfake tech power Facebook scam ads

These scams are not the work of lone fraudsters. They are coordinated efforts that mirror real digital marketing operations.

Deepfake software is used to create fake video footage of celebrities.
AI voice clones make fake endorsements sound eerily convincing.
Text generators churn out fake user reviews, comment threads and testimonials.
Scam kits with ad templates and deployment instructions circulate in private Telegram groups and Discord servers.

These operations are designed to appear legitimate. Landing pages mimic reputable news sites. Comment sections feature AI-written praise. Every element is optimized to build trust and get the click.

Who Facebook scam ads target and why you could be next

Scammers do not just blast out ads at random. They use Facebook’s ad targeting system to handpick the most vulnerable audiences.

Older users are often targeted with health scams or celebrity cash giveaways.
Men aged 25-45 are frequently shown crypto or investment ads featuring tech figures.
Fans of specific celebrities or shows may see fake endorsements tied to those interests.
Users who click on giveaways or contests are more likely to be targeted again, since Facebook tracks interaction history.

These groups are targeted because they are either perceived as trusting, impulsive or unfamiliar with how digital scams operate.

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Why Facebook scam ads keep getting past Meta’s moderation

Despite Meta’s claims of robust ad review, scam ads still make it through frequently and quickly. Here is why:

Most ads are approved by automated systems that cannot catch nuanced AI fakery.
Scammers use geographic targeting to show ads in regions less likely to report fraud or where enforcement is weak.
The ads often run for only a short time before disappearing, making them harder to catch.

Even with tools like facial recognition being tested to detect unauthorized celebrity use, these systems have not been widely implemented. Meanwhile, investigations by consumer advocacy groups and cybersecurity firms have found that a significant portion of crypto-related Facebook ads are fraudulent. With scammers paying for ad space, Meta has little financial incentive to aggressively remove them.

Common signs of Facebook scam ads: What to watch for

Scam ads can be surprisingly well-made, but common themes show up again and again. Watch for:

Free game betas or giveaways, especially ones that require downloads.
Celebrity endorsements promoting crypto, weight-loss pills or supplements.
Mimicked news articles or fake media logos.
Urgent claims or miracle results, which are classic scam tactics.

If an ad prompts you to download a file, especially a .zip or .rar, it is almost certainly a trap.

Facebook app on home screen of a smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How to protect yourself from AI-powered Facebook scam ads

Here is how to stay safe and help others do the same:

1. Check the source: If it is an ad, approach it with extra skepticism. Look it up independently.

2. Do not download files from ads: Especially avoid compressed formats like .zip or .rar, which often contain malware.

3. Verify endorsements: If a celebrity is promoting something, check their official social media or public statements.

4. Report suspicious ads: Even if you are not sure, reporting helps Meta identify fraudulent activity.

5. Talk to friends and family: Especially older adults, who may be more trusting of what they see on Facebook.

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6. Be wary of unsolicited messages or friend requests and install strong antivirus software: Scammers often use fake profiles to send scam ads or phishing links via Facebook Messenger or friend requests. Avoid clicking links from unknown contacts. Also, install strong antivirus software, which adds a layer of defense that can block malware from scam links. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

7. Consider using a password manager: If your credentials are compromised, this minimizes the risk of attackers accessing other accounts. A password manager can securely store and generate complex passwords. It will help you create unique and difficult-to-crack passwords that a hacker could never guess. Second, it also keeps track of all your passwords in one place and fills passwords in for you when you’re logging into an account, so that you never have to remember them yourself. The fewer passwords you remember, the less likely you are to reuse them for your accounts. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.

8. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA can prevent unauthorized logins even if your password is stolen.

9. Regularly update your software and apps: Keeping your operating system, browsers and Facebook app updated ensures you have the latest security patches that can block known vulnerabilities exploited by scammers.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Scam ads on Facebook are evolving fast, using AI-generated content, fake celebrity endorsements and deepfakes to trick users into clicking. What looks like a game beta or cash giveaway can actually lead to malware, phishing scams or fake crypto schemes. Facebook’s ad review system isn’t catching these in time, which means users need to stay alert. Be skeptical of ads, avoid downloading files, install trusted antivirus software and talk to family members who may be more vulnerable.

Given how widespread and sophisticated scam ads have become on Facebook, do you think Meta should be held more accountable for protecting users, and if so, what actions should they take to better prevent these scams? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Rad Power Bikes files for bankruptcy protection

Published

3 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Press Room

Rad Power Bikes files for bankruptcy protection

Rad Power Bikes, the once dominant electric bicycle brand in the US, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection this week as it seeks to sell of its company. The move comes less than a month after Rad Power said it could not afford to recall its older e-bike batteries that had been designated a fire risk by the US Consumer Protection Safety Commission.

The bankruptcy, which was first reported by Bicycle Retailer, was filed in US Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Washington, near the company’s headquarters in Seattle. Rad Power lists its estimated assets at $32.1 million and estimated liabilities at $72.8 million. Its inventory of e-bikes, spare parts, and accessories is listged at $14.2 million, Bicycle Retailer says.

It’s a stunning reversal for the once leading e-bike company in the US. Mike Radenbaugh founded the company in 2015 after several years of selling custom-made e-bikes to customers on the West Coast. Rad Power quickly grew to over 11 distinct models, including the fat-tire RadRover, the long-tail RadWagon, and the versatile RadRunner. Rad Power Bikes raised an approximate total of $329 million across several funding rounds, primarily in 2021, with major investments from firms like Fidelity, Morgan Stanley, and T. Rowe Price.

But in the wake of the post-covid bike boom, things started to go south. There were supply chain disruptions, safety recalls, several rounds of layoffs, and executive turnover. Last month, Rad Power said it was facing “significant financial challenges” that could lead to its imminent closure without a cash infusion.

The CPSC warning apparently was the nail in the coffin. The company’s older batteries could “unexpectedly ignite and explode,” the agency warned, citing 31 fires, including 12 reports of property damage totaling $734,500. There weren’t any injuries, but the company said it couldn’t afford a costly recall.

Rad Power could still live on if its able to find a buyer for its assets and brand. Dutch e-bike make VanMoof was able to find a buyer following its 2023 bankruptcy. And Belgium’s Cowboy is in talks to be acquired by a French holding company of several bike brands. Rad Power will continue to operate as it restructures its debts under court supervision, and in a statement to Bicycle Retailer said it will continue to sell bikes and work with customers and vendors as it moves forward with the process.

Technology

Chrome rolls out AI podcast feature on Android

Published

4 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Press Room

Chrome rolls out AI podcast feature on Android

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Chrome on Android now offers a fresh way to digest information when your hands are busy or your eyes need a break.

A new update powered by Google Gemini can turn written webpages into short podcast-style summaries. Two virtual hosts chat about the content, making it feel easier to follow during your commute or while you multitask.

This upgrade builds on Chrome’s long-standing read-aloud tool, yet now adds a more natural and lively delivery. It does not work on every website, so some pages will still use the original word-for-word reading. When the AI option appears, though, the audio feels polished and smooth.

Below is how to try it on your Android phone right now.

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HOW TO DISABLE GEMINI AI ON ANDROID AND KEEP CONTROL OF YOUR APPS

Make sure you have the newest Chrome version so the AI podcast feature works. (Cyberguy.com)

Update Chrome before you start

First, make sure Chrome is current in the Play Store by opening the Play Store, searching for Google Chrome and tapping Update if it appears. The AI podcast feature works with version 140.0.7339.124 or newer, so confirm you have at least that version installed. Once you finish the update, open Chrome and pick any webpage with text you want to hear.

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

Open the More menu

Tap the More icon or the three vertical dots in the upper right corner. This reveals a set of options that control how Chrome displays or reads the page.

Select Listen to this page

Choose Listen to this page. You will see a small Generating AI playback banner at the bottom. The processing is fast, so you will not wait long.

Hear the AI hosts discuss the page

Chrome will start a mini podcast with two voices talking through the content. You can tap the playback bar to pause, rewind or jump ahead. The panel stays on screen and follows you as you scroll.

Switch to standard playback when you want

The AI audio keeps going even if you leave the webpage. If you prefer a traditional word-for-word readback, tap the AI playback icon in the lower left and pick Standard Playback.

Chrome begins creating the AI audio as soon as you tap the “Listen to this Page” option. (iStock)

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What this means to you

This feature can make long articles easier to absorb when you are on the move. You get a quick, conversational rundown without having to read a full page. It also helps you revisit information faster since the controls work like any audio player. If you enjoy podcasts, this tool gives you a familiar way to stay informed without draining your attention.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Chrome’s AI podcast feature brings a new layer of convenience to Android. It saves time, reduces eye strain and turns everyday browsing into a hands-free audio experience. Since it still supports the standard read-aloud mode, you can switch back anytime.

Would you use AI hosts to read your favorite websites, or do you prefer the classic readback style? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Using the new update powered by Google Gemini, you can change from the AI podcast to a simple word-for-word reading at any time. (“I’ve Had It” YouTube channel)

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Technology

Even Trump’s chief of staff was ‘aghast’ at Elon Musk’s deadly USAID cuts

Published

16 hours ago

December 16, 2025

Press Room

Even Trump’s chief of staff was ‘aghast’ at Elon Musk’s deadly USAID cuts

Wiles says she called Musk on the carpet. “You can’t just lock people out of their offices,” she recalls telling him. At first, Wiles didn’t grasp the effect that slashing USAID programs would have on humanitarian aid. “I didn’t know a lot about the extent of their grant making.” But with immunizations halted in Africa, lives would be lost. Soon she was getting frantic calls from relief agency heads and former government officials with a dire message: Thousands of lives were in the balance.

Wiles continued: “So Marco is on his way to Panama. We call him and say, ‘You’re Senate-confirmed. You’re going to have to be the custodian, essentially, of [USAID].’ ‘Okay,’ he says.” But Musk forged ahead—all throttle, no brake. “Elon’s attitude is you have to get it done fast. If you’re an incrementalist, you just won’t get your rocket to the moon,” Wiles said. “And so with that attitude, you’re going to break some china. But no rational person could think the USAID process was a good one. Nobody.”