AI Deepfake Targets Rubio, Triggers Global Warning

The U.S. State Department has issued a global warning and is investigating after an unknown actor used AI-generated voice and text messages to impersonate Secretary of State Marco Rubio, contacting at least five officials—including three foreign ministers, a U.S. governor, and a member of Congress—via Signal and similar platforms. The impersonator used a fraudulent 'marco.rubio@state.gov' Signal account in an attempt to obtain sensitive information or account access. While no breaches of State Department systems have been confirmed, officials warned of potential risks if individuals were compromised. The incident is part of a broader pattern of AI-driven impersonation and phishing campaigns, some linked to foreign actors such as Russia, targeting U.S. officials and civil society worldwide. The State Department has advised vigilance and the reporting of suspicious contacts, and is reinforcing cybersecurity measures. Experts highlight that AI deepfakes increasingly threaten government security, even on secure messaging apps.