Hyderabad cybercrime experts warn of AI deepfake boss scams targeting local firms

Cybercrime experts in Hyderabad warned businesses on 25 June 2026 about a rising wave of AI-driven "Boss Scams," where fraudsters use deepfake voice and video technology to impersonate company executives. The warning, issued on Thursday evening, highlights how cybercriminals are targeting finance, human resources, and procurement teams to trick employees into authorizing fraudulent payments or sharing sensitive corporate data.

According to cybersecurity officials, the scam—also known as "CEO Impersonation Fraud"—involves attackers using highly sophisticated artificial intelligence tools to mimic the voices or faces of senior company leaders. These fraudsters typically contact employees with a high sense of urgency, instructing them to transfer funds, alter vendor bank account details, or release confidential corporate records.

The threat has intensified as many organizations in Hyderabad continue to operate under remote or hybrid work models. A senior police official noted that in traditional office settings, employees could easily verify unusual requests by speaking directly with their managers. However, distributed workplaces force staff members to rely heavily on emails, phone calls, messaging platforms, and video conferences for approvals and decision-making, leaving them more vulnerable to deception.

Finance departments are particularly targeted because they handle daily fund transfers and vendor payments. Similarly, procurement teams are being manipulated into changing supplier bank details or processing fraudulent invoices, while human resources personnel are targeted to gain access to employee records and salary data.

In response to the growing threat, cybercrime authorities have urged companies to strengthen their verification procedures for high-value transactions. Recommended safeguards include implementing multi-person approval systems, conducting independent verifications through separate communication channels, and establishing mandatory callback procedures before processing any payments or sharing confidential information.

Officials cautioned that because AI tools are becoming increasingly sophisticated and widely accessible, organizations can no longer rely solely on recognizing a familiar voice or face to confirm an executive's identity.