Deepfake videos featuring UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Prince William are being exploited to promote a fraudulent cryptocurrency platform known as 'Immediate Edge.'

Research by Fenimore Harper has uncovered that over 250 deceptive ads have been circulating on Meta platforms since mid-2023, utilizing these AI-generated videos.

These misleading advertisements have reached approximately 891,834 viewers and falsely claim endorsements from both Starmer and Prince William.

The deepfake videos misleadingly assert that Starmer supports 'Immediate Edge,' enticing viewers with promises of life-changing financial opportunities.

One particular fake advert features Starmer claiming that viewers will experience significant life changes without requiring special skills.

Another advertisement falsely quotes Prince William as endorsing Starmer's initiative, further misleading potential victims.

These scams involve deceptive landing pages that collect personal information and encourage individuals to invest in non-existent trading platforms.

Victims are often unable to withdraw their funds after depositing money into these fraudulent platforms.

The total expenditure on these deceptive ads has reached approximately £21,053, constituting 43% of all Meta ads related to Starmer.

Meta has stated that it detected and removed most of these ads prior to the report's publication, maintaining its commitment to policies against deceptive advertising.

Marcus Beard from Fenimore Harper has called for urgent measures to combat online disinformation and enhance transparency in digital advertising.

The ongoing circulation of these ads underscores the escalating threat posed by AI-driven disinformation campaigns, prompting increased caution among viewers.