---
title: "Deepfakes: When Familiar Voices and Faces Become a Business Risk"
description: Deepfakes are becoming a real business risk. Learn how familiar voices are used in impersonation attacks and what SMEs can do to stay protected.
image: https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/Deepfakes%20When%20Familiar%20Voices%20and%20Faces%20Become%20a%20Business%20Risk.png
---
[](https://www.grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- About Us
- [Our Story](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Meet the Team](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-team)
- [Certifications](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/certifications)
- [Careers](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/careers)
- IT Support Services
- [IT Support Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services)
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
- Professional IT Services
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Microsoft 365](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-business-premium)
- [Microsoft Copilot](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-copilot)
- [AI Adoption Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-adoption-services)
- [Microsoft Azure](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-azure)
- [MDR](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/mdr-vs-soc-cyber-security-defence)
- [Microsoft Teams Phone](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-teams-phone)
- [KnowBe4](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/knowbe4)
- [DMARC](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/dmarc)
- [Enclave Networks](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/enclave-networks)
- Knowledge Hub
- [Case Studies](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/case-studies)
- [Testimonials](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/success-stories)
- [Blog](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Podcast](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast)
- [Client Area](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/client-area)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- About Us
- [Our Story](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Meet the Team](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-team)
- [Certifications](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/certifications)
- [Careers](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/careers)
- IT Support Services
- [IT Support Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services)
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
- Professional IT Services
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Microsoft 365](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-business-premium)
- [Microsoft Copilot](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-copilot)
- [AI Adoption Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-adoption-services)
- [Microsoft Azure](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-azure)
- [MDR](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/mdr-vs-soc-cyber-security-defence)
- [Microsoft Teams Phone](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-teams-phone)
- [KnowBe4](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/knowbe4)
- [DMARC](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/dmarc)
- [Enclave Networks](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/enclave-networks)
- Knowledge Hub
- [Case Studies](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/case-studies)
- [Testimonials](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/success-stories)
- [Blog](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Podcast](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast)
- [Client Area](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/client-area)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[Contact Us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[Back to main](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
Artificial Intelligence
# Deepfakes: When Familiar Voices and Faces Become a Business Risk
Grant McGregor Team
3 March 2026 • 4 min read
Imagine your CEO calling with an urgent request for a payment. Would your finance team stop to verify that it was really them?
What if someone with a familiar voice on Microsoft Teams reported a critical system failure and asked for immediate admin access?
Would your team pause or act quickly because the voice sounds exactly like a trusted colleague?
For years, cyber security training has focused on suspicious links and phishing emails. That guidance still applies, but impersonation has evolved.
According to the *Annual Threat Report 2025*, voice phishing (vishing) attacks increased by **442% between the first and second half of 2024**, as attackers began adding real-time human interaction to their tactics.
The threat is no longer just written text. It can arrive as a voice you recognise, or a face you trust.
### **Defining the threat: what is a deepfake?**
A deepfake is technology that uses artificial intelligence to recreate a person’s voice or appearance in audio or video. With only a short clip of someone speaking, criminals can generate convincing content that appears to come from someone you know.
Most people instinctively trust what they see and hear.
When a request appears to come from someone familiar, our guard naturally lowers.
The technology behind this is widely accessible and voice cloning does not require specialist equipment. Highly realistic audio and video can now be created quickly using readily available tools. It doesn't need studio-level perfection, it only needs to feel believable in the moment.
### **A costly case of mistaken identity**
You may remember the deepfake scam involving Martin Lewis. Fraudsters created a realistic video of him endorsing a fake investment scheme.
Despite Lewis repeatedly warning that he does not promote such investments, the visual familiarity persuaded people to send money. The video was imperfect, but it felt real enough.
In another case, a Ferrari executive received a call that appeared to come from the company's CEO. The voice matched. The context made sense.
The attempted fraud collapsed because the executive asked a simple question about a recent book recommendation. The caller could not answer. That basic verification step stopped what could have been a serious financial loss.
### **Why smaller organisations are exposed**
Deepfake attacks are not limited to multinational brands or public figures.
Smaller organisations often operate on speed and trust. Informal communication, lean teams and quick decisions are common strengths, but they can also create opportunities for impersonation.
When a request sounds like it comes from a senior colleague, people tend to act quickly without questioning it.
Access is provided because a request sounds urgent. These attacks target human judgement, rather than technical weaknesses.
### **Rethinking verification**
Relying on voice recognition alone is no longer enough. Many organisations are introducing straightforward confirmation steps for high-risk actions.
The shift is simple: instinct supported by process.
### **Practical steps for SMEs**
- Switch channels:
If a request for money or sensitive data arrives via one platform, confirm it through another trusted method.
- Pre-set verification
Agree internal challenge questions for sensitive requests - details that would not be publicly available.
- Support the pause:
Make it clear across the organisation that slowing down to verify is good practice. No one should feel pressured to act instantly on an urgent request.
### **In short**
Deepfakes are becoming part of the modern fraud landscape.
The greatest risk arises when a request feels urgent and sounds familiar. Verification adds a layer of protection for both people and the business.
It comes down to this: can identity be confirmed before action is taken, and has the team been trained to pause and verify?
If you would like to review how your organisation handles high-risk requests or remote access approvals, our team is here to help.
Call us: 0131 603 7910
Message us: [https://www.grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us](https://www.grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/6138324/ee2a578f-e4c7-437c-bcdc-7f04f9d1e161)
Grant McGregor Team
3 March 2026 • 4 min read
## Recent Posts
### Cyber Security Awareness Month: Why Attackers Still Target the Basics
Learn key cyber security practices for your organisation during Cyber Security Awareness Month. Protect against basic vu...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security-awareness-month)
### Shadow AI: Is Your Business Ready for AI Adoption?
Understand shadow AI's impact on your business. Discover how to assess risks, improve processes, and adopt AI securely w...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/shadow-ai-is-your-business-ready-for-ai-adoption)
### Our Net Zero Target for 2040: What Can We Change?
From company vehicles and travel to suppliers and technology, see how Grant McGregor is working towards its net zero tar...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/our-net-zero-target-for-2040-what-can-we-change)
### What Is Penetration Testing? A Guide for Businesses
Learn what penetration testing is, how it works, what the report should include and when your business should consider a...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/what-is-penetration-testing-a-guide-for-businesses)
Union
## Empower your business with secure, expert-led solutions.
Talk to us about people-focused technology that drives results.
[Start a conversation](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
Premium IT Services Tailored for Leading Brands
[Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/grant-mcgregor-ltd/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.youtube.com/itgrantmcgregor) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/grantmcgregorltd/) [Follow us on Twitter](https://x.com/GrantMcGregorIT)
Quick Links
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk)
- [About us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Knowledge Hub](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
Services
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
Edinburgh – Chesterfield
[0131 603 7910](tel:+441316037910)
[info@grantmcgregor.co.uk](mailto:info@grantmcgregor.co.uk)
**Main Office:**
The Merchants' Hall,
22 Hanover St,
Edinburgh EH2 2EP
© 2026
Grant McGregor. All rights reserved.
[Privacy and Cookie Policy](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/UsefulDownloads/Policies/GRMC-SEC-Privacy-and-Cookie-Policy.pdf)
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "Grant McGregor Team",
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/author/grmc-team"
},
"dateModified" : "2026-04-09T13:34:35.050Z",
"datePublished" : "2026-03-03T17:59:46.000Z",
"headline" : "Deepfakes: When Familiar Voices and Faces Become a Business Risk",
"image" : [ "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/Deepfakes%20When%20Familiar%20Voices%20and%20Faces%20Become%20a%20Business%20Risk.png" ],
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/deepfakes-when-familiar-voices-and-faces-become-a-business-risk",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GRMC_blue_logo.svg"
},
"name" : "Grant McGregor"
}
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@id" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/",
"@type" : "LocalBusiness",
"address" : {
"@type" : "PostalAddress",
"addressCountry" : "GB",
"addressLocality" : "Edinburgh",
"postalCode" : "EH2 2EP",
"streetAddress" : "22 Hanover Street"
},
"geo" : {
"@type" : "GeoCoordinates",
"latitude" : 55.9526313,
"longitude" : -3.1970679
},
"image" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GRMC_blue_logo.svg",
"name" : "Grant McGregor",
"openingHoursSpecification" : {
"@type" : "OpeningHoursSpecification",
"closes" : "18:00",
"dayOfWeek" : [ "Monday", "Tuesday", "Wednesday", "Thursday", "Friday" ],
"opens" : "08:00"
},
"sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/grantmcgregorltd/", "https://x.com/GrantMcGregorIT", "https://www.youtube.com/itgrantmcgregor", "https://www.linkedin.com/company/grant-mcgregor-ltd/" ],
"telephone" : "+441316037910",
"url" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/"
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "Grant McGregor team"
},
"dateModified" : "2026-03-10",
"datePublished" : "2026-03-10",
"headline" : "Deepfakes: When Familiar Voices and Faces Become a Business Risk",
"image" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"height" : 1050,
"url" : "https://info.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/Deepfakes When Familiar Voices and Faces Become a Business Risk.png",
"width" : 1800
},
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/deepfakes-when-familiar-voices-and-faces-become-a-business-risk",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://info.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GM-logo-399.png"
},
"name" : "Grant McGregor"
},
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/deepfakes-when-familiar-voices-and-faces-become-a-business-risk"
}
```