India, Nov. 18 -- A new analysis highlights how cybercriminals are exploiting popular personalities to lure people into fraudulent schemes. The findings show a sharp rise in AI-generated endorsements, giveaways, and promotional messages that mimic well-known individuals.

This year, Shah Rukh Khan tops the list of the most misused names in deceptive content. He is followed by Alia Bhatt and Elon Musk. People in India report seeing these three the most in manipulated videos and images designed to push fake offers, malicious links, or bogus product promotions.

The study notes that 90 per cent of Indians have come across fake or AI-generated celebrity endorsements. Many have lost money as a result, with an average loss of Rs 34,500 per vict...