Ripple CTO Exposes AI Deepfake Scam Promising Fake 100M XRP Airdrop

Highlights:

• Ripple CTO warns of AI deepfake scam faking CEO Brad Garlinghouse.
• Fake XRP airdrop video emerges after Ripple’s legal success.
• Scammers exploit XRP’s price rally and social media hype.

An AI deepfake scam has hit the XRP community on X (formerly Twitter), misleading users with a fake video. The video includes the Ripple CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, advertising a scam of a 100 million XRP airdrop. Ripple CTO David Schwartz immediately reacted, saying that the video was fake and generated using AI.

The deepfake video promotes fake claims, as the airdrop is associated with Ripple’s recent legal victory. The fraud came shortly after the price of XRP started rising toward all-time highs. However, Schwartz cautioned the users to make it clear that the video is a scam.

Obvious scam is obvious.

— David 'JoelKatz' Schwartz (@JoelKatz) July 18, 2025

The legal victories of Ripple have been used by scammers in the past to initiate deceptive campaigns. They make use of the enthusiasm and belief in Ripple’s leadership in the community. This is the same tactic that has reemerged at a time when investors are optimistic over the recent decision against the SEC.

AI Deepfake Scam Uses Legal Victory To Spread Fast

The video, which is manipulated, alleges that Ripple is appreciating the support of the users by distributing free XRP. Moreover, it links the airdrop with Ripple’s multi-year legal struggle and triumph against the SEC. But the executives of Ripple have several times already stated that they do not organize giveaways or demand funds.

This is not the first of such frauds that have been directed at Ripple. In August of 2024, scammers took advantage of the success of Ripple, with a judge ordering a $125 million fine rather than the $2 billion the SEC wanted. Following this, fake XRP deals flooded social media.

And once again with Wednesday's historic victory, we've seen an uptick in scams. 🚨🚨🚨

Please beware of scam "Ripple" accounts, fake executive accounts or others promoting "XRP Giveaways" or "XRP Airdrops." Ripple and its executives will NEVER ask you to send funds anywhere. https://t.co/uGitnz71yn

— Ripple (@Ripple) August 9, 2024

Similarly, there were fake promotions all over the internet in July of 2023 after yet another courtroom victory. Ripple does not conduct legally based airdrops, which Schwartz told users back then. The company has consistently held that its official giveaways will never demand any personal funds or information. What makes this AI deepfake scam different is the realistic nature of the video. Since the image and voice of Garlinghouse seem authentic, it can easily deceive even highly suspicious users. However, the statement made by Schwartz to the public was timely to avoid more damage.

Ripple Urges Caution Amid Price Surge and Scam Surge

The XRP price increase and the ecosystem buzz provide a favorable environment for malicious parties. The current spike in whale activity and the market volume are evidence of increasing interest. Moreover, ProShare Ultra XRP ETF was given the go-ahead to be traded on NYSE Arca. Unfortunately, fraudsters are on their heels, ready to prey on this concentration with opportune deception.

The video has gone viral on social media sites, particularly X. The fake video continues to gain traction, making public warnings even more critical. However, Ripple is currently requesting users to report counterfeit accounts and dismiss any reward offers.

The rising popularity of AI attacks in crypto reveals how fraud strategies are taking a new direction. Deepfakes pose an additional risk to the digital space. The incident is an indicator of a shift in the use of technology by criminals who imitate trusted persons in the sector.