Real-time deepfake services are now up to 400 times cheaper on darknet platforms, according to Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT). The cybersecurity firm uncovered ads offering fake video and audio content starting at just $50 and $30, respectively. This marks a dramatic drop from earlier rates of $300 to $20,000 per minute.
These services let threat actors generate real-time deepfake content during video calls, identity checks, and live camera feeds. The ads, found across Russian- and English-language darknet forums, promote tools for face swapping, voice cloning, and camera feed replacement.
Vendors claim their software can sync facial expressions with text, even in foreign languages. Some tools also adjust voice tone and timbre to mimic emotions. However, Kaspersky warns that many listings may be scams designed to defraud buyers.
Cybersecurity expert Muhammad Asad Ul Rehman says deepfakes pose serious risks to individuals and organizations. “From financial scams and reputational damage to identity theft and career sabotage, the threat is real,” he said. Companies risk data leaks, market instability, and loss of public trust.
Dmitry Galov, head of Kaspersky’s GReAT team in Russia and CIS, notes that malicious actors are actively experimenting with AI. Some platforms offer locally run large language models (LLMs) built from scratch. These tools don’t introduce new threats but significantly boost attacker capabilities.
Kaspersky urges a multi-layered defense: awareness, strong verification, AI-powered detection, and supportive policy frameworks. Their Threat Intelligence platform helps businesses spot emerging threats. The Automated Security Awareness Platform boosts employee digital literacy.
Organizations should train staff to recognize deepfake signs. These include jerky movements, inconsistent lighting, unnatural skin tones, missing blinking, image distortions, and low-quality visuals. Early detection and proactive defense are essential.
As real-time deepfake services become cheaper and more advanced, the need for stronger digital defenses grows. Kaspersky urges companies and individuals to act before the threat escalates.
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