Innovative Partnership Against Deepfake Threats Launched by Sumsub and Constructor University

Groundbreaking Collaboration to Combat Digital Fraud: Sumsub and Constructor University

In a significant move to address the escalating challenge of deepfake fraud, Sumsub, a recognized leader in verification and fraud prevention, has announced an innovative partnership with Constructor University in Bremen, Germany. This alliance marks the launch of Sumsub's AI Academic Program, a strategic initiative aimed at leveraging cutting-edge research to create efficient solutions against AI-driven digital fraud. As institutions worldwide grapple with the increasing sophistication of fake identities, this collaboration sets a precedent for how academia and industry can unite to cultivate expertise in navigating contemporary challenges.

Understanding the Growing Threat of AI-Driven Fraud

Deepfake technology, which allows for the creation of hyper-realistic yet fabricated digital representations, has proliferated, becoming a tool for various fraudulent activities. Recent statistics from Sumsub highlight a staggering 700% rise in deepfake fraud in the first quarter of 2025 alone, alongside alarming spikes in synthetic identity document fraud across Europe. This uptick not only undermines trust in digital platforms but also poses significant privacy risks and threatens global financial systems.

To combat these challenges effectively, Sumsub recognizes the necessity for a combined effort with top-tier academic institutions. Professor Dmitry Vetrov, a notable AI researcher at Constructor University, alongside Professor Hilke Brockmann, leads the AIDE project focusing on the social and ethical consequences of artificial intelligence on trust and governance. Their expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping the partnership's objectives towards developing transparent and effective fraud prevention solutions.

Investment and Opportunities for Students

As part of this collaboration, Sumsub plans to make tangible investments in academic research and scholarship opportunities. The partnership will not only fund groundbreaking studies but also provide internships for students within Sumsub's product and technical teams. By exposing emerging AI talents to real-world challenges in identity verification and digital security, the program aims to foster practical skills that are essential in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Vyacheslav Zholudev, co-founder and CTO of Sumsub, who completed his doctoral studies at Constructor University, believes that this partnership is a way to give back to the academic community. It highlights the mutual benefits of such alliances, where industry insights can significantly enhance academic research while providing students the chance to be at the forefront of developing solutions to combat AI-enabled fraud.

The Road Ahead: A Call to Action

This initiative not only aims to produce groundbreaking academic research and open-source models but also encourages other educational institutions to participate in the fight against AI fraud. With a strong commitment to collaboration, Sumsub envisions forging additional partnerships globally to expand the reach and impact of its efforts.

Dmitry Vetrov remarked on the collaboration's importance, stating that by combining academic research with practical applications, they aspire to create artificial intelligence solutions that uphold transparency, fairness, and trust in digital systems impacting millions globally.

Overall, the alliance between Sumsub and Constructor University highlights a proactive approach to confronting new digital threats. As the world becomes increasingly reliant on digital platforms, partnerships like these will be crucial in establishing robust defenses against the evolving landscape of online fraud. By fostering education, research, and practical experience, both organizations aim to build a foundation that not only addresses present challenges but also prepares future generations to navigate the complexities of an AI-driven world.

In closing, as deepfake technology continues to advance, the need for vigilance and innovation becomes ever more critical. The partnership between Sumsub and Constructor University serves as a compelling example of how collaboration can empower the fight against fraud and safeguard trust in our digital environments.