North Korean hackers stole $400 million using AI-generated video calls, FBI says

backed hackers stole more than $400 million over the past 18 months through a social engineering scheme involving identity theft and fake video calls manipulated with artificial intelligence, the FBI reported.

The operation, known as “FaceStealer,” targets individuals in the cryptocurrency and Web3 sectors. Hackers impersonate someone familiar to their victims and use AI-generated videos, known as deepfakes, to lure them into video calls.

During the calls, criminals create a fake technical error that prompts victims to click on a link or message, allowing malware to be installed on their devices.

Once inside, the hackers access contact lists, social media accounts and messaging applications to identify and target additional victims.

The FBI said it had uncovered more than 900 webcam videos belonging to FaceStealer victims. The agency warned that the scheme can deceive even people with advanced technical and cybersecurity knowledge.

According to FBI Cyber Division Director Brett Leatherman, North Korea relies on large-scale cryptocurrency theft to fund its illicit weapons program.