The Dark Side of AI: Enhanced Catfishing on Digital Dating Platforms

Recent times have seen a concerning evolution in the digital realm of dating. Enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI), a notorious tool has been upgraded, making it increasingly adept at manipulating unsuspecting daters through fabricated profiles. Cybersecurity specialist, Avast, recently flagged this alarming development.

While the software has been nicknamed “LoveGPT” by Avast, it shouldn’t be mistaken for other similar-named applications or websites. Its origin is rooted in Visual Basic, a Microsoft programming language from the 90s era. Despite its age, the software’s recent upgrades, now allow it to engage and scam users on dating apps more effectively.

What’s concerning, according to Avast, is the software’s myriad of capabilities. “LoveGPT can construct counterfeit profiles, interact with potential targets, elude CAPTCHAs, and employ proxies and other tools for anonymity, spanning multiple dating platforms.”

The software, though demanding some technical expertise, runs rampant once set up. Stealthily navigating numerous dating platforms, it uses sophisticated anonymization strategies to engage unwary users. The incorporation of AI, particularly OpenAI’s DaVinci and GPT-3.5 turbo LLMs, empowers it to design the most alluring profiles to snare its prey.

It’s adept at operating across 13 distinct dating platforms, not just spinning deceptive profiles but also scraping valuable user data such as images and personal texts. The intelligence of “LoveGPT” is further highlighted as it classifies users by age, ensuring its deceitful profiles are more believable. Storing this plethora of information, it maintains extensive databases, tracking each AI-driven interaction.

Its stealth attributes are equally impressive. Using tools like virtual phone numbers, proxy services, and anti-fingerprinting mechanisms, it remains undercover. Its capabilities even extend to overcoming CAPTCHAs and crafting deceptive emails.

This AI-infused revelation couldn’t be more timely. A study by AttractionTruth highlighted that up to 20% of male app users are leaning on AI to boost their dating game. Furthermore, a separate Decrypt study highlighted a trend where individuals are splurging on AI-driven digital fantasies, drawn by their tailored experiences.

While “LoveGPT” marks a concerning surge in AI-led romantic scams, crypto scams haven’t lost their top spot. Trend Micro, a cybersecurity research firm, emphasizes their dominance in 2023, especially given the unpredictable nature of cryptocurrency markets.

Last year’s launch of a moderation tool by OpenAI, designed to counter AI misuse, appears timely. But with the duality of AI serving both as a guide and a manipulator in the dating landscape, daters should prioritize authenticity and be ever-watchful of these digital charmers.