Deepfakes are a serious threat to our industry; but AI can help us fight back.
In my last blog article, I discussed how deepfake fraud is a growing threat in the real estate industry and what you can do to combat it in your workplace. This time, I thought it would be helpful to take a deeper dive into some of the latest AI tools on the market that may be able to assist in these efforts. Of course, careful consideration is warranted before implementing any new solution, and it’s important to consult with your IT and security team to ensure it aligns with your business needs and data security standards. With that said, let’s dig in!
What is deepfake fraud?
Deepfake fraud has exploded in recent years, with some reporting showing an increase of over 2,000%. Scammers are using AI-generated videos and voices to impersonate real people convincingly. To combat this technology, experts have developed cutting-edge tools and techniques to recognize and stop deepfakes.
What are people doing about it?
Here are some of the latest detection methods that your agency might consider to keep deepfake fraudsters at bay. Here’s how they work.
AI-powered detection tools are designed to analyze videos and images in real time to detect whether they have been manipulated. Just a couple promising tools include:
HONOR’s AI Deepfake Detection – Launching April 2025 HONOR’s deepfake solution can be thought of as a built-in lie detector for images and videos. The technology scans media in real time and alerts users if something seems fake. This could help businesses and individuals avoid being misled by AI-generated content.[i]
Reality Defender – Real-time Deepfake Detection for Video Calls In a world of constant video meetings, it has unfortunately become possible for someone to get on a call with you and pretend to be your boss or a family member by using deepfake technology. Reality Defender combats this type of fraud by scanning facial movements, voice patterns and subtle glitches in real time. If anything is flagged, the technology alerts the user so they don’t become victims of scams.[ii]
Lightweight AI models are another tool people are deploying to deal with the rise of deepfakes and other fraudulent activity. These AI detection tools offer unique advantages to users. For one thing, they require far less computing power than other models, but they are still capable of effectively detecting deepfakes. Let’s look at a specific example:
Tiny-LaDeDa – A mini AI model with 96% accuracy Unlike traditional AI models that suck up an inordinate amount of power, Tiny-LaDeDa can sniff out deepfakes even while running on smaller devices. Despite being lightweight, it still claims to detect 96% of deepfake videos out there by analyzing tiny details in the way faces and voices are generated.[iii]
Comprehensive benchmarking frameworks
Given that deepfake technology is always evolving, cybersecurity researchers are not resting on their laurels. The industry has been developing standardized testing platforms to improve detection tools and ensure that security solutions can keep up with even the most creative of fraudsters. Let’s take a peek at some of the most notable:
DF40 – A giant deepfake training library The DF40 library can be thought of like a gym for deepfake detectors. It contains thousands of deepfake samples created using 40 different AI techniques. Researchers can train and test tools against a wide variety of fake content, which enables them to get far better at spotting new ones as they come online.[iv]
DeepfakeBench – A fair testing ground As with many cybersecurity tools, not all deepfake detectors are created equal. Additionally, some detectors are good at spotting one type of fraud but perform poorly when dealing with another. DeepfakeBench seeks to remedy this by ensuring that every detection tool is tested under the same conditions. It is an important solution for those who want to compare different products and assess which ones are the most effective.[v]
Smarter deepfake detection techniques
Sometimes, deepfake detectors can cause more problems than they solve. For example, certain tools may focus too much on “fake-looking” elements instead of checking if a person’s identity is real by cross-referencing IDs against verified data or analyzing biometric consistency. Luckily, there are many researchers currently working hard to fix this problem:
Rebalanced Deepfake Detection Protocol (RDDP) RDDP improves deepfake detection by making sure tools don’t just look for obvious digital artifacts like weird lighting or blurry patches. This prevents hackers from bypassing detection by using better-quality deepfakes.[vi]
Government and military efforts
Governments are also stepping into the fight against deepfake fraud, especially because deepfakes can pose a considerable risk to national security and election integrity.
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) DARPA is an agency within Defense Department that focuses on investigating emerging technologies. As part of that effort, it is investing in AI tools that go beyond simple detection and combat deepfakes on a forensic level. The agency sees this work as a critical piece of the puzzle in dealing with everything from misinformation and identity fraud to protecting against AI-generated impersonations.[vii]
Tools for real estate transactions
While deepfake technology is advancing, so too are the tools designed to prevent all types of fraud in real estate transactions.
SecureMyTransaction® from Alliant National SecureMyTransaction (SMT) leverages AI-driven facial recognition to verify identities by comparing ID photos with selfie images, helping ensure that parties involved in a transaction are legitimate. In addition, SMT helps verify bank accounts and business entities to add multiple layers of security. By integrating these advanced fraud prevention tools into the title and escrow workflow, SMT provides an important safeguard against deepfakes and other fraud tactics. Learn more atsecuremytransaction.com.
Final thoughts
Scammers are increasingly using AI-powered deepfakes to target real estate transaction stakeholders—which makes them a major threat to our industry. But thankfully, new detection technologies are pushing back on these ambitious criminals. For title agencies, it is imperative to understand how these solutions work and how they may enhance your cybersecurity posture. The threat landscape is always evolving, but by staying apprised of the most cutting-edge solutions out there, you can fight fraud and keep your agency moving forward.
From Sci-Fi to Real Life: The Evolution of Deepfake Technology
Once upon a time, the idea of digitally swapping faces or creating hyper-realistic videos of people saying things they never actually said was confined to Hollywood blockbusters. Think of movies where actors were digitally de-aged or deceased celebrities made surprising cameos. However, in 2017, a new term hit the internet: “deepfake.” It was a blend of “deep learning” and “fake,” originally coined when a Reddit user used AI to swap celebrities’ faces in videos.
Since then, deepfake technology has evolved at warp speed. While some use it for harmless fun—like making historical figures “sing” pop songs—others have taken a more sinister route. Today, deepfakes are used in political disinformation, identity fraud, and cybercrime, including the more recent entrée into the fraudulent diversion of funds and properties in real estate transactions.
The Rise of Deepfake Fraud in Real Estate
Deepfake fraud has been making headlines in unexpected ways, and real estate is one of the latest industries to be hit. In the past two years, fraudsters have harnessed AI-powered deepfake technology to pose as property owners, financial executives, and even notary publics.
Take, for example, a case from 2023 where a scammer used a deepfake voice to impersonate a real estate attorney in a communication with a client. The unsuspecting buyer was convinced that he was talking to his legitimate attorney and wired a six-figure down payment—straight into the scammer’s account.
Another shocking case involved a fraudster using a deepfake video to pose as a property owner looking to sell a luxury home. The scammer managed to fool not only the buyer, but also the title company, leading to the fraudulent sale of a multimillion-dollar estate.
Of course, there was also the fraudulent attempt to force a foreclosure sale of Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home, which made headlines in 2024.
How to Combat Deepfake Fraud in Real Estate
With deepfake technology becoming more advanced, spotting fakes is harder than ever. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. Here are some strategies to avoid falling victim:
Double-Verify Identities Don’t rely solely on phone calls, video calls, or emails. Always confirm identities through multiple channels—such as in-person meetings, official documentation, and voice confirmation through previously established phone numbers.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) When transferring funds or signing critical documents, consider requiring MFA. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just visual or voice verification.
Scrutinize Video Calls and Emails If something feels off—like unnatural blinking, delayed audio sync, or robotic speech patterns—be skeptical. Deepfake videos often have subtle imperfections that can give them away.
Conduct Due Diligence If a new client or seller suddenly appears with urgent demands, do your due diligence. Check property records, verify business affiliations, and ensure everything aligns with known facts.
Leverage AI Detection Tools Just as AI is being used to create deepfakes, it’s also being used to detect them. Some AI-driven tools analyze facial movements, voice anomalies, and inconsistencies in digital assets to help identify fraudulent activity. In the real estate sphere, SecureMyTransaction®, developed by Alliant National, applies AI facial-recognition technology to verify identity documents such as driver’s licenses and passports.
The Bottom Line
Deepfake technology is no longer a futuristic concern—it’s here, and it’s changing the way fraudsters operate. By staying vigilant and implementing multi-layered verification methods, you can ensure that your next property transaction doesn’t turn into a deepfake disaster.
See Alliant National’s most recent Title Tip, which was inspired by a real-life attempt to commit wire fraud using deepfake technology.
Here’s how you can take your marketing to the next level this year.
When you work in marketing for a while, you quickly realize that nothing stays the same for long. Back in the 1990s, for example, unsolicited bulk emails were the order of the day. Then in the 2000s, many businesses became notorious for keyword stuffing to juice their SEO stats. Each of these went out of style for various reasons, but mostly they boil down to changing technology, regulatory and customer factors. This underscores how important it is to keep your agency’s marketing practices aligned with the latest best practices. Let’s look at what that means for your agency in 2025.
I. Embrace AI-driven marketing
You’ve likely heard this, but artificial intelligence (AI) must be top of mind in this relatively new year. AI applications can significantly improve the way an organization does business, providing personalized and productive solutions across a company. Title agencies have a lot to gain by incorporating this technology into their marketing. Whether it be with AI-powered chatbots, analytics or content creation, there is no shortage of use cases. Collectively, this can lead to improved customer interactions, better business insights and more engaging marketing overall.
II. Emphasize authentic content
At the same time AI is upending how we do business, customers are increasingly drawn to companies that put good, old-fashioned human authenticity front and center. In practical terms, this means speaking openly about your company’s values and showing integrity by taking consistent action. The business rationale for this is obvious. If you aren’t seen as authentic on something as fundamental as your professed values, why would anyone believe in any products or services you’re selling?
III. Prioritize customer data
Closely connected to these points is the power of data. Even though AI is rapidly making content creation easier and cheaper than before, it won’t benefit your marketing efforts if it isn’t relevant to your audience. To put it another way, AI can’t learn about your customers and your business on its own. You must train it. Without addressing data infrastructure and making improvements, AI applications will lack the insights needed to succeed.
IV. Prioritize local SEO
As a title agency, chances are the majority of your business is highly localized or regionalized. That’s where a strong local SEO strategy comes into play. To begin appearing in more localized searches, optimize your Google Business profile by ensuring all data is accurate and up to date. Then, keep an eye on local reviews of your business. People often make purchasing decisions after visiting review aggregators like Yelp, so it’s important to monitor user reviews and respond appropriately. Finally, consider whether to optimize for voice search. Voice-enabled devices are now mainstream, making it critical not to overlook this channel.
V. And, of course, video
While not necessarily a new trend, video remains one of the most important marketing strategies today, and if you aren’t using it in your marketing, you may be missing a potential opportunity. Here are some ways to incorporate video into your marketing efforts.
Educational content: Create educational videos that address common customer concerns. Explaining the title process, outlining closing procedures, or emphasizing the importance of title insurance are all potential topics on which to base a video.
Client testimonials: While it’s usually best to prioritize educational content over promotional content, that doesn’t mean you can’t pitch your agency and its capabilities. One powerful approach is the client testimonial. People often want to hear from others about their experiences before doing business with a company. A polished client testimonial is a great way to bolster consumer trust that can lead to a deal.
Behind-the-scenes content: Remember, people like to do business with people they like. Creating videos that go “behind-the-scenes” is a great way to humanize your brand and make potential clients more comfortable working with your agency. Video also pairs well with social media and can increase your impact on several of the top platforms.
Make 2025 your year of marketing success
2025 is here, and with it comes an opportunity for title insurance agencies to refine their marketing strategies and stand out. The marketing field is evolving quickly, and staying ahead means embracing innovation. By embracing AI, prioritizing authentic messaging, and utilizing tools like local SEO and video, you will be able to position your agency for success in the new year.
From AI to advanced analytics, here are the trends that can reshape your IT stack for the better.
With 2024 almost behind us, IT planning is ramping up for many companies. The technology landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Emerging technology like AI is proliferating at an ever-faster clip, and even tried and true workflows are becoming more complex to manage. Considering all these developments, it can be difficult to know which trends your agency should focus on. Let’s work together to get our bearings and make sure your agency kicks off 2025 without a hitch.
AI, AI and more AI
AI continues to dominate IT discussions, and for good reason. One area where we expect to see an increased use of these technologies is fraud detection and identity verification. With fraud and other forms of fraudulent activity continuing to rise, agencies require an easy way to detect and deter this activity. AI-powered tools such as our own SecureMyTransaction meet that need by using cutting-edge technology to confirm stakeholder identities, protect transaction integrity, and reduce agency risk.
Regulatory compliance needs
In the new year, compliance will be a key focus, driven by data privacy fears and the acceleration of automation technologies. Title agencies can take advantage by adopting new platforms that optimize compliance workflows for local, state, and federal regulations. These tools leverage AI to monitor compliance in real time, automate reporting and auditing processes, and integrate seamlessly with other agency technologies.
Advanced analytics and BI
With a dynamic industry like title insurance and real estate, the contours of the market are always in flux. Naturally, this means there is a powerful application for advanced analytics and business intelligence technologies on the agency level. Modern solutions are equipped with features designed to enhance operational efficiency and elevate customer experiences. With the right analytics capabilities, agencies will be well-equipped to conduct powerful risk analyses, track team performance, boost pipeline efficiency, and gain new insight into closing times and transaction volumes.
Cloud-based collaboration and cybersecurity
Since the pandemic, the demand for remote work technologies has exploded. To help navigate this transition, many businesses have adopted cloud-based platforms for communication, collaboration, and cybersecurity. In 2025, these solutions will become ever more tailored and impactful for companies working in the title insurance and real estate fields. These tools benefit agencies with their easy integrations, not to mention AI, productivity, and security features that reduce transaction delays, increase customer confidence, and strengthen their cybersecurity posture.
2025 is the year to put IT front-and-center
For title agencies, achieving market leadership requires more than excellent staff and title production. Establishing the right digital infrastructure is equally important to getting ahead of the competition. AI, cloud computing, advanced analytics—these are all powerful strategies that can help you get there. They will cement a standard of technological excellence in 2025 that will delight existing customers and help you win new ones to boot!
To learn more about how you can begin to strengthen your IT stack with the help of Alliant National’s SecureMyTransaction, visit the solution’s website at securemytransaction.com. There you’ll find blogs, videos, and more that explain how the tool can get you and your team on the cutting edge of digital security.
The rapid rise of AI in business sometimes evokes memories of the 1984 sci-fi classic The Terminator, and particularly its description of a technology that “can’t be reasoned with,” “can’t be bargained with,” and which “will not stop, ever” until it completes its mission.
We’re obviously a long way off from cyborgs, but all signs indicate that AI’s march forward will inevitably disrupt the way people work in our industry. This disruption will come − ready or not. Fostering a culture of adaptability will be important as we position our teams to capitalize on tomorrow’s opportunities. The good news is that, with appropriate safeguards in place, people can work in parallel with AI to radically increase productivity. Let’s discuss some steps you can take to keep people, processes and data safe as you consider AI use in your business.
AI: Amazing promise with potential pitfalls
You have likely already dipped your toe into applications like Chat GPT and Google Bard, and you’ve probably been amazed by the results. Leveraging sophisticated language models, these applications have an uncanny ability to understand user input and to generate responses that mimic human communication. End users have put these tools to work generating content, conducting research, designing graphics and even producing full application and website code.
The ChatGPTs of the world are undoubtedly marvels of engineering, but using these programs without restraint may imperil sensitive consumer and company data. Moreover, AI models are not an exact science, with research pointing to how outputs are often marred by programmer bias and inaccurate information. Finally, relying on AI-generated code without additional review can cause problems with your website or other digital real estate. Safe to say, it is wise to proceed with caution.
Cover your bases
So how then can you unleash AI’s power while maintaining your security posture? I wish I could say there was a silver bullet, but in reality, it requires a multi-prong security approach. Here are some areas to consider when developing a plan your business:
Information classification and hierarchy: A great place for title agencies to begin is to build a classification hierarchy for the data held within your corporate ecosystem. Apart from our consideration of AI, a classification system like can be deeply important for risk management and creating customized data controls. Once you have this in place, it is much easier to instruct your team regarding the types of data that can be used within an AI system and what must be kept sequestered.
End user education: Unless you have extensive experience with language models, it can be difficult to understand how AI applications work and how to use them safely. Seeking out resources and training can be an important step toward making the most of specific AI tools while still adhering to corporate policies and procedures.
Incident response: This is a standard part of your typical cybersecurity plan. Designed to encompass all actions your organization will take in the event of data breach or other security problem, it is advisable to expand your incident response plan to also include AI. That way, you will be able to execute efficiently in the event of an issue and mitigate potential negative impacts.
Compliance and regulations: Given the rapid rise of AI, it’s not surprising that lawmakers and regulators have lagged in their attempts to address the potential negative consequences of these new technologies. But you can bet regulation is coming.Considering the large volume of personal data title professionals deal with every day, it is enormously important to stay apprised of regulatory developments so you can respond appropriately and remain compliant.
AI will be back, but we can be ready
Easily one of the most memorable quotes from The Terminator comes when Arnold Schwarzenegger remarks in a complete deadpan, “I’ll be back.” This iconic line also describes where we currently are with the AI revolution. When ChatGPT was released on November 30, 2022, it was lauded as a revolution in the modern workforce. While some of that early hoopla has now died down, there is no doubt that the AI will come roaring back as it continues to integrate into our workflows. The only real question is whether we will be ready to deploy future iterations of this technology to maximize efficiency without sacrificing safety. By updating your security plan now, you will be better positioned to embrace AI advancements, ensuring a balance between technological progress and cybersecurity.
