AI + a16z

When Deepfakes Steal $30M: The New Edge of Cybercrime

15 snips
Sep 26, 2025
Kevin Tian, cofounder and CEO of Doppel Security and ex-Uber engineer, dives into the evolving landscape of AI and cybercrime. He discusses the rise of deepfake fraud, highlighting incidents where attackers stole $30M. Kevin explains the '3 V's' of social engineering: volume, velocity, and variety. He also covers the importance of simulation tools like 'vibe phishing' for training employees, and how LLMs and automation are reshaping security strategies. Ultimately, he sees social engineering as a human problem that needs innovative solutions.
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INSIGHT

Outsiders Spot Automation Gaps

  • Non-security founders often excel by applying automation and ML expertise to persistent security problems.
  • Outsider perspectives highlight opportunities where the space lacked engineering-driven solutions.
INSIGHT

AI Expands The Attack Surface

  • Generative AI broadens social engineering across channels and content types.
  • Doppel sees volume, velocity, and variety amplifying attacks on WhatsApp, Telegram, SEO, and forums.
ADVICE

Simulate Real Attacker Vibes

  • Use simulation to train employees on realistic attacker tactics and channels.
  • Spin up multi-channel exercises (SMS, email, iMessage) from LLM prompts to close the gap with real threats.
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