AI Scammers Attack Aadhaar Identities: Deepfakes Created from Social Media Photos

The Ahmedabad Cyber ​​Crime Branch has busted a gang that was hijacking Aadhaar-linked identities using AI-generated deepfake videos. By altering mobile numbers linked to Aadhaar, the criminals gained access to banking services and defrauded victims of lakhs of rupees in loans.

A major question has been raised regarding the security of digital identities in India. The Ahmedabad Cyber ​​Crime Branch has exposed a syndicate that was hijacking identities linked to the Aadhaar system by utilizing AI-generated deepfake videos. This high-tech fraud has left not only the general public but even seasoned cyber experts astounded.

How ​​Aadhaar Data Was Misused

According to the police, the gang first identified financially well-off individuals through various online platforms. Subsequently, using Telegram bots and digital tools, they gathered information linked to the victims’ Aadhaar accounts as well as their photographs from social media profiles. These photographs were then processed through AI software to create “blinking” deepfake videos that mimicked authentic human facial expressions and mannerisms. Using these videos, the criminals deceived the Aadhaar verification system and successfully altered the victims’ registered mobile numbers.

Changing Mobile Numbers Granted Full Digital Access

The moment the mobile number linked to an Aadhaar account was changed, the criminals gained access to banking alerts, digital lockers, and various other services. They then proceeded to open new SIM cards and bank accounts, using them to secure instant personal loans ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000. They attempted to evade detection by routing the stolen funds through multiple bank accounts.

How ​​the Scam Was Uncovered

The fraud came to light when a businessman from Ahmedabad stopped receiving One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for his Aadhaar-linked transactions. An investigation revealed that his registered mobile number and biometric data had been altered without any OTP verification, and loans had been fraudulently obtained in his name.

Investigation and Arrests

So far, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, while the prime accused—identified as Oli Ullah from Assam—remains at large. The police stated that the gang utilized Common Service Centres (CSCs) to alter mobile numbers linked to Aadhaar accounts. The technical head, Rabbul Hussain—who was managing AI resources and identity theft operations—has also been apprehended.

A Wake-Up Call for Digital Identity Security

This case exposes serious vulnerabilities present within India’s digital identity ecosystem. Officials have alerted the UIDAI regarding these flaws. Experts warn that photographs shared on social media have now become the easiest weapon for cybercriminals. Consequently, it has become imperative to further bolster digital security measures.