Reality Defender Secures Significant Investments from BNY, Samsung Next and Fusion Fund

Major Investments for Reality Defender

On April 3, 2025, Reality Defender, celebrated for its innovative deepfake and AI-generated media detection technology, shared the news of strategic investments from prominent entities including BNY, Samsung Next, and Fusion Fund. This financial backing not only emphasizes the growing concern over the potential dangers posed by deepfakes but also reflects a commitment to fortifying security across critical communication channels within financial and institutional frameworks.

The Need for Protection Against Deepfakes

Founded in 2021, Reality Defender has garnered considerable recognition, notably winning the RSA Innovation Sandbox for its cutting-edge approach to detecting deepfake impersonations. With incidents of deepfake attempts occurring at an alarming rate—reportedly every five minutes—there is a pressing necessity for effective solutions capable of addressing these sophisticated threats. According to Entrust, deepfakes account for a staggering 40% of biometric fraud, illuminating the vulnerabilities present in today’s digital landscape.

The technology developed by Reality Defender is increasingly indispensable in the battle against fraud and misinformation. Their platform provides comprehensive protection for various sectors, including enterprises, government bodies, and institutional clients, which are susceptible to threats ranging from advanced voice fraud in call centers to malicious deepfake incursions during sensitive web conferences.

Insights From the Investors

Ben Colman, Co-Founder and CEO of Reality Defender, emphasized the role of their new investors: “The strategic investments and global expertise brought by BNY, Samsung Next, and Fusion Fund will empower us to expand our technology during these turbulent times characterized by deepfake volatility.” He underlined that these collaborations align with Reality Defender’s mission to secure essential communication channels and combat advanced fraud attacks.

Marianna Lopert-Schaye, Managing Director for BNY, remarked on the unprecedented risks posed by deepfake technology to financial institutions, stating, “Our investment reflects our commitment to protecting transaction integrity through leading security innovations effective against emerging threats.”

Raymond Liao of Samsung Next viewed Reality Defender's technology as critical in an age where the complexities of AI-generated content mislead digital communication. He asserted that “detecting deepfakes in real-time is essential to maintain trust in this digital realm.”

Lu Zhang, Managing Partner at Fusion Fund, expressed concern over how deepfake technology jeopardizes institutional trust, referring to Reality Defender's innovations as pivotal for identifying both current and future threats.

Awards and Recognition

Reality Defender's importance is underscored by its recent recognition as the Most Innovative Company at the 2024 RSA Innovation Sandbox, reinforcing its position as a leader in creating solutions that tackle AI-driven threats.

While the financial terms concerning these investments have not been disclosed, the support from such formidable firms is anticipated to enhance Reality Defender's capabilities in safeguarding vital communication channels against growing challenges in an AI-centric world.

About the Companies

Reality Defender — The company specializes in protecting crucial communication from deepfake impersonations. Its patented technology allows for real-time detection, ensuring that businesses and governments can operate with confidence amid increasing threats.

BNY — With a legacy spanning 240 years, BNY is focused on managing global financial services and safeguarding assets for a wide array of clients, including Fortune 100 companies and top global banks.

Samsung Next — The innovation branch of Samsung invests in ambitious startups aimed at transformative advancements in various technologies, emphasizing the importance of trusted communication in the future.

Fusion Fund — This venture investment firm champions data-driven entrepreneurs who are set to revolutionize industries through cutting-edge technologies, emphasizing the urgency in addressing challenges presented by emerging tech threats.

As the landscape of digital communication continues evolving, the collaborative effort among these companies could prove vital in navigating the complexities of AI-generated challenges, paving the way for a secure future.