WATCH: FAKE WICKNELL STRIKES AGAIN!Scammers use AI to milk fans in shocking fraud blitz
Sipepisiwe MoyoZimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWE’S cyber crooks have upped their game, and this time they’re armed with AI and the flashy image of businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
In a new scam, fraudsters are creating fake social media accounts posing as Sir Wicknell, complete with AI-generated video calls that look and sound like the man himself.
Victims are being conned into buying bogus “fan cards” with the promise of massive returns. Some say they were told a US$100 card would bring back US$10 000, all backed by slick deepfake videos showing so-called “beneficiaries” flashing wads of cash.
“The culture of scamming just got a tech upgrade,” said one cyber expert. “It’s no longer about stolen photos. These guys are using artificial intelligence to create convincing video calls on WhatsApp. It’s next-level fraud.”
Chivayo, known for his viral car giveaways, has hit back, warning fans not to fall for the trap.
“It has come to my attention that some unscrupulous individuals are fraudulently impersonating me,” he posted on his verified Facebook. “These criminals promise outrageous returns if you send them US$30 000. It’s laughable and very sad.”
He added, “I don’t ask for money, I don’t call fans, and all my giveaways are genuine and from the heart. If I choose you, you’ll get your car fully paid for with a full tank and registration.”
The scam has rocked social media, with users admitting they were almost duped. “I got a message from a verified-looking page and thought it was real,” said one woman. “But something felt off when they asked for my WhatsApp number.”
Chivayo urged people to report fake accounts and warned that anyone who sends money to imposters does so at their own foolish risk.
As the AI scam wave hits Zimbabwe, experts say it’s now more important than ever to verify accounts, question get-rich-quick promises, and remember the golden rule: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Don’t be the next victim. Think before you send!
The post WATCH: FAKE WICKNELL STRIKES AGAIN!Scammers use AI to milk fans in shocking fraud blitz appeared first on herald.