(ZENIT News / Urgell, Spain, 05.31.2024).- The Bishopric of Urgell has reported a potential identity fraud case involving its bishop, Joan-Enric Vives, to the Mossos d’Esquadra, Catalonia’s regional police force. The complaint follows the circulation of a video on social media on Wednesday, May 22, which allegedly impersonates the bishop. According to sources from the bishopric, they are considering further legal action against those responsible.
Andorran media reported that the video, posted on Instagram, features an apparent deepfake of Bishop Vives, urging people to purchase shares in a company. Bishop Vives also holds the position of co-prince of Andorra, a microstate nestled between Spain and France.
This incident marks the second known case of a high-ranking clergy member being targeted by a deepfake scam. Earlier in January 2024, Cardinal Aguiar Retes, the Archbishop of Mexico City, was impersonated in a video promoting a purported cancer cure.
The emergence of this video has raised significant concerns about the misuse of deepfake technology to manipulate public perception and commit fraud. The Bishopric of Urgell is urging caution and vigilance among the public while legal authorities investigate the incident.
The use of deepfake technology for scams represents a growing threat, particularly for public figures who are increasingly at risk of having their identities manipulated for fraudulent purposes. As the investigation continues, both the ecclesiastical and broader communities are on high alert to prevent further such occurrences.
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