A new report by verification firm Sumsub has revealed an alarming surge in synthetic identity fraud and deepfake attacks, with criminals increasingly deploying generative AI to create hyper-realistic passports, IDs, and biometric data that threaten to destabilise sectors like e-commerce, healthtech, and fintech, both globally and in emerging markets like Nigeria.

Sumsub, which analysed millions of digital identity verification checks on its platform in Q1 2025, says synthetic identity document fraud in North America alone has spiked by 311%, while deepfake-related attacks have jumped 1100%, marking one of the most dramatic evolutions in fraud patterns driven by AI tools.

“As generative AI becomes more accessible, so does the ability to generate synthetic identity documents and deepfakes at scale,” Andrew Sever, CEO of Sumsub says. “Fraud-as-a-Service is no longer hypothetical—it’s here, and businesses must evolve beyond outdated verification tools.”

The findings raise fresh concerns for Nigeria and other digitalising economies increasingly exposed to global fraud trends. With digital onboarding, e-commerce, and fintech adoption accelerating across the country, experts warn that fraudsters could turn to local targets next, especially with Nigeria already ranked among the top six markets globally for synthetic identity document fraud at 1.52% of detected cases.

Identity fraud surge: Why Nigeria should be worried

Synthetic identity documents—created by AI using a blend of real and fake data—can now easily fool basic KYC processes. Fraudsters use them to open accounts, launder funds, and bypass compliance checks, leaving businesses and regulators scrambling to respond.

While the surge is most dramatic in North America, global deepfake attack rates are also climbing rapidly. Countries like Canada (+3,400%), Hong Kong (+1,900%), Singapore (+1,500%) and Germany (+1,100%) are witnessing explosive growth, and Africa is not far behind.

Sumsub’s data shows the healthtech sector is emerging as an unexpected high-risk target, with fraud attempts rising by 384% globally. Coupled with mounting attacks in e-commerce, edtech, and fintech, the trend underscores the growing need for multi-layered digital verification systems that go beyond traditional document checks.

What this means for Nigerian businesses

From fintech start-ups to e-commerce platforms, Nigerian businesses face a rising tide of sophisticated fraud that requires urgent attention. The implications are vast—ranging from financial losses to regulatory risks and reputational damage.

“Outdated tools simply won’t cut it anymore,” Sever warns. “Businesses must adopt intelligent, adaptive systems capable of analysing document authenticity, detecting biometric spoofing, and monitoring transactions in real time.”

Sumsub says it is investing in AI-powered fraud prevention technologies, including deepfake detection and biometric verification tools, to help businesses stay ahead. The company’s full-cycle platform supports KYC, KYB, transaction monitoring and travel rule compliance for over 4,000 clients globally, including players like Vodafone, Duolingo, and TransferGo.

Africa’s place in the global threat map

While Africa’s fraud rates may still trail those of the U.S. and Europe, growing mobile and digital finance adoption means vulnerabilities are expanding. With Ethiopia, Pakistan and Nigeria among the top geographies for synthetic identity fraud attempts, regulators and businesses alike are being urged to act fast.

As Nigeria builds a future anchored on digital transformation and financial inclusion, trust in digital identity systems must remain paramount. Experts say the battle against AI-enabled fraud will define the resilience of the country’s fintech and e-commerce sectors.