How much money has the AI app Haotian made?

Haotian has received at least $3.9 million in payments for its face-swapping technology.

Who is using Haotian's face-swapping technology?

Haotian's technology is being used by scammers for 'pig butchering' schemes and online fraud operations.

Where does Haotian primarily market its services?

Haotian primarily markets its desktop app and updates through a public Telegram channel.

Home / Crime and Justice / AI Scammer Tool Makes Millions Illegally

AI Scammer Tool Makes Millions Illegally

18 Dec

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Summary

Chinese AI app Haotian earned over $3.9 million through face-swapping tech.
The app markets to scammers for 'pig butchering' and online fraud.
Haotian's tool is nearly perfect, constantly improving its deepfake capabilities.

AI Scammer Tool Makes Millions Illegally

An advanced Chinese AI application named Haotian has amassed over $3.9 million by selling sophisticated face-swapping technology, primarily through the Telegram platform. Researchers have identified that the app's primary customer base consists of individuals involved in "pig butchering" scams and other online fraud schemes, particularly in Southeast Asia.

Haotian's technology allows for extensive facial manipulation, with up to 50 adjustable settings, creating nearly perfect deepfakes. Since its emergence around 2021, the app has become increasingly popular among cybercriminals. Cryptocurrency tracing revealed that a significant portion of Haotian's revenue originated from wallets linked to illicit activities and sanctioned scam marketplaces.

This technology is part of a broader trend where deepfake tools are integrated into cybercrime. Officials have identified over ten similar face-swapping tools potentially used in Southeast Asia for cryptocurrency scams and impersonation. Following inquiries, Haotian's main public Telegram channel and associated accounts were made inaccessible.