AI-Generated Jack Ma Videos Spreading Falsehoods About Singapore, CNA Investigation Finds

Singapore has become the target of a coordinated disinformation campaign powered by generative AI — using fake videos of Alibaba founder Jack Ma to spread falsehoods about the city-state on YouTube. A CNA investigation has uncovered at least 260 AI-generated videos across 32 channels, collectively amassing over a million views.

The videos use AI deepfake technology to replicate Jack Ma's face and voice, with the fabricated avatar presenting itself as an expert on Singapore's economy, geopolitics, and urban legends. In one video, the AI-generated Ma claims 10 countries are joining forces to "encircle and suppress" Singapore. Another falsely alleges Singapore is cutting off other nations' access to food and water by tightening control of the Strait of Malacca. CNA found no evidence that Ma ever made these statements, and none of the videos cite any original speech or interview.

The investigation reveals a sophisticated operation: five channels that misappropriated Ma's image were created within a five-day window and posted on synchronised schedules — some videos were uploaded by different channels within seconds of each other. The content spans both English and Mandarin, with the Ma avatar delivering a blend of praise and outright conspiracy theories about Singapore. Of the 300 videos analysed across 32 channels, 259 — about 86 per cent — contained at least one false or misleading claim in their titles or transcripts.

This operation highlights a growing challenge for Singapore as AI-generated disinformation becomes cheaper and easier to produce at scale. The technology required to create convincing deepfake videos has become accessible enough that bad actors can run coordinated misinformation campaigns with minimal resources. CNA noted that these videos exploit an authority figure's likeness to manufacture credibility, a tactic that is difficult for platforms and regulators to counter at speed.

Why it matters for Singapore: This investigation lands as Singapore is strengthening its defences against AI-enabled harms. The Online Safety Commission, launched just last month, has already seen over 200 complaints including doxxing cases. The PDPC recently released advisory guidelines on AI and personal data, and the CSA has updated its cybersecurity code of practice to address AI-enabled threats. The Jack Ma deepfake campaign shows these measures are not theoretical — the tools to weaponise AI against Singapore are already in widespread use, and the response needs to match the scale and sophistication of the threat.