While artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, education, and governance, concerns are mounting over its misuse in sophisticated fraud schemes. In a high-profile case from Kerala, investigators have revealed that an alleged fake contract linked to a ₹300-crore project at the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Container Transshipment Port was reportedly created using AI tools and then used to gain credibility and attract investments.
The case has drawn widespread attention after police claimed that the forged document was designed to make people believe that the accused had secured a major contract associated with the strategically important Vizhinjam port project. Investigators suspect the document may have been shown to multiple individuals in an attempt to raise funds or secure financial benefits.
According to police, accused Salmanul Faris, who was arrested earlier this week, admitted during questioning that he generated the agreement using artificial intelligence applications on his mobile phone. The document allegedly stated that he had obtained a contract worth approximately ₹300 crore related to the port project, thereby projecting himself as a successful businessman with access to major infrastructure deals.
Investigators say the document was crafted to appear authentic and official. To enhance its credibility, Faris allegedly forged the signature of Divya S. Iyer, the former Managing Director of Vizhinjam Port. Authorities are now examining how extensively the document was circulated and whether it was used to persuade individuals to invest money or enter into business arrangements.
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Police have registered a case against Faris under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to forgery, cheating, and the creation of fraudulent documents. Officials indicate that the investigation remains at an early stage and several aspects of the alleged fraud are still being examined.
During interrogation, Faris reportedly claimed that he had prepared the document only to impress a female friend and convince her that he was a successful entrepreneur. He allegedly maintained that the forged agreement had been shared solely with her. However, investigators are treating this explanation with caution and are attempting to determine whether the same document was used more broadly to solicit investments or gain financial advantages from others.
The case took a dramatic turn after actor Neha Saxena publicly accused Faris of attempting to deceive her as well. Speaking to the media, she alleged that several women had fallen victim to his financial schemes.
According to Neha, Faris introduced himself as the son of the ruler of Dubai and tried to establish credibility through extravagant claims. She further alleged that he offered to make her a brand ambassador for luxury jewellery brand Cartier. However, she became suspicious early on and chose not to engage further.
Neha claimed that after she recognized the alleged deception and distanced herself from the accused, she began receiving repeated threatening messages. As a result, she filed a police complaint. She also alleged that Faris issued serious threats against her after she exposed what she believed to be fraudulent conduct.
These allegations are now part of the broader investigation, with authorities examining digital communications and other electronic evidence that may help establish the sequence of events and determine whether additional victims are involved.
Cybercrime experts warn that the increasing accessibility of AI-powered content generation tools could lead to a rise in document-related frauds. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh noted that criminals are increasingly using technology to create an illusion of credibility and exploit public trust. He observed that fraudsters often rely on impressive-looking contracts, fake credentials, and fabricated business opportunities to convince victims to part with their money.
He advised investors and business professionals to independently verify contracts, project claims, and corporate affiliations before making financial commitments, particularly when large sums of money are involved.
As the investigation progresses, police are working to determine the full extent of the alleged fraud, identify potential victims, and establish whether the forged contract played a central role in securing investments. Authorities believe further revelations may emerge as digital evidence is analysed and additional witnesses are questioned.
