As AI-generated content is now mainstream, the dark web is also exploiting it to fuel a black market for synthetic identities. These generated IDs are completely fake, they are not real IDs, and neither do they represent real persons. They are completely fake personas, with AI-generated names, photos, and in some cases, fake social media histories.
One renowned cybersecurity firm reports a 320% increase in such listings since early 2025. Criminals use these synthetic identities to open fake accounts, commit financial fraud, or manipulate online platforms. The most alarming aspect of this is that many of these identities can pass KYC (Know Your Customer) verification processes due to their lifelike details, thus making it a complete menace to deal with.
Law enforcement faces a new challenge with this ever-growing menace by tracking down someone who does not exist at all. Cybersecurity experts are now calling for new regulations that address the overlap between AI and identity fraud.
As generative Artificial Intelligence tools become widely and easily accessible, the line between reality and forgery keeps getting thinner and is becoming far more dangerous.
