A new scam making rounds on social media is using deepfake technology and Elon Musk’s image to promote a dubious app called “X Casino”. Promotional videos feature a deepfake AI replica of Elon Musk endorsing the app and promising outrageous rewards if users download it.
This article will provide an in-depth look at how this scam operates, the false promises it makes, and most importantly, why you should avoid falling for it at all costs. Read on to arm yourself with the knowledge needed to recognize such scams in the future.
Scam Overview
The ads for the X Casino app first started appearing on Facebook and Instagram in early 2022. They consist of short video clips that show a deepfake AI-generated version of Elon Musk promoting a mobile app called X Casino.
The deepfake Musk claims that he has “boosted jackpot odds on all slots” and promises $5,000 to anyone who doesn’t hit the jackpot on their very first try. He encourages viewers to click the link and download the app to claim the reward.
However, this is nothing more than a scam designed to steal personal information and money from unsuspecting users. The app does not actually exist – the link redirects to a fake website mimicking the Google Play Store.
The scam exploits Elon Musk’s name and reputation to fool people into believing it is a legitimate app endorsed by him. In reality, Musk has no association with this scam app.
The ads are designed to go viral, using clickbait promises of easy money to lure victims. Even a cursory look exposes the many red flags.
This scam has been also investigated by Jordan Liles on his YouTube channel, where he offers a detailed video on the subject. We recommend watching his content for a comprehensive understanding of the scam.
Next, let’s break down exactly how scammers carry out this scam from start to finish.
How the Scam Works
1. The Fake Ads
Scammers create fake ads on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. These ads feature deepfake videos of Elon Musk promoting a fictional gambling app called X Casino. The deepfakes are highly realistic representations designed to fool viewers.
The ads entice victims with promises of easy jackpot winnings up to $5,000. They provide links urging people to download the X Casino app and claim their reward.
2. The Fake Website
When victims click the link, it leads to a website dressed up to mimic the real Google Play Store. The scam site copies the official Google branding, colors, fonts, layouts, and more.
At first glance it looks identical to the legitimate Play Store. However, small mistakes reveal it’s fraudulent, like slight differences in the URL or typos.
The app grid only displays the promised X Casino app and no other real apps. There are also no reviews or ratings, which real Play Store apps would have.
3. Malware Distribution
When victims try to download the X Casino app, the site prompts them to download an APK file rather than going through Google Play. This APK contains malware disguised as the real app.
Once installed, the malware compromises the victim’s smartphone or computer security. It spies on activity, stealing personal data, account credentials, and financial information.
The malware may also sign up victims for unwanted paid services without consent. In essence, it opens up the device to complete compromise.
Avoiding The Scam
The only way to avoid this scam is identifying the subtle signs indicating the website is fake. Look for slight URL differences, layout inconsistencies, missing reviews, and limited app selection.
Only download apps from official stores like Google Play and Apple App Store. Avoid dubious third-party APK files, no matter the promises. Be skeptical of outrageous claims used to lure victims.
What To Do If You Are A Victim
If you downloaded the X Casino app and submitted any personal information, here are the steps you should take immediately:
Delete the app from your device if you installed it. Run antivirus software to remove any potential malware.
Change passwords for all your online accounts, especially financial accounts. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
Contact your bank and credit card companies to monitor for any suspicious activity and potentially freeze accounts.
Place a fraud alert and monitor your credit reports with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion to catch any signs of identity theft.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) about the scam at ftc.gov/complaint.
Report the fraudulent ads to Facebook and Instagram. Submit screenshots and any other evidence you may have.
Do not send any money to the scammers under any circumstances, as this will likely lead to further exploitation.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elon Musk X Casino App Scam
1. Is the Elon Musk X Casino app real?
No, the Elon Musk X Casino app is a complete scam. There is no actual app by this name endorsed or created by Elon Musk. Any ads, videos, or websites promoting it are fraudulent.
2. How can you identify the X Casino app scam?
Red flags include fake Elon Musk endorsements, promises of guaranteed jackpot winnings, links to suspicious websites, and an app that is unavailable on legitimate app stores like Google Play.
3. What happens if you try to download the X Casino app?
The links actually direct to a fake website posing as the Google Play store. It either steals your personal information or infects your device with malware disguised as the real app.
4. Are the Elon Musk endorsements in the ads real?
No. The ads use AI-generated deepfake videos of Elon Musk to fake his endorsement of the scam app. Elon Musk has no actual association with this app or these ads.
5. Can you really win money using the X Casino app?
No, there are no jackpots or money to be won. The promises of easy winnings are fabricated to trick victims. Any money you deposit will simply be stolen.
6. What does the X Casino app scam want from victims?
The scam aims to steal personal information, login credentials, financial account details, and money from victims. It may also install malware for further spying and theft.
7. What should you do if you downloaded the fake X Casino app?
Immediately delete it, run antivirus scans, change passwords, contact banks, and monitor for fraud. Avoid any further engagement with the scammers to limit damages.
8. How can you avoid mobile app scams like this?
Stick to official app stores like Google Play and Apple App Store. Research unfamiliar apps. Beware too-good-to-be-true offers. Protect personal data.
9. Where should the X Casino scam be reported?
Report these fake ads to social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Also file complaints with the FTC to help warn others.
10. Who typically falls victim to such scams?
Anyone can fall prey, but those more trusting of internet content and less tech-savvy are common targets. Stay vigilant and don’t get duped.
The Bottom Line
The promise of easy jackpot money using an app endorsed by Elon Musk is a complete scam. The ads are designed to go viral and trick users into downloading malware or revealing personal information.
Avoid falling for scams by watching for red flags like too-good-to-be-true claims, grammatical errors, and fake reviews. Stick to downloading apps only from official app stores like Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Be very cautious before clicking on links or providing information to unfamiliar third-party websites. Protect yourself by using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, monitoring your accounts and reports regularly.
If you suspect you are victim of fraud, take steps to limit damages immediately. Report the scam to appropriate authorities to help prevent others from falling prey. Stay vigilant – arming yourself with awareness is key to sidestepping cybercrimes.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
