February 2026 saw a surge of online searches across South and Southeast Asia linked to alleged “viral video” controversies involving several social media creators. Many of these claims circulated on platforms such as X, TikTok, and Telegram.
Users were often directed to links claiming to show leaked or scandalous clips involving well-known influencers. However, digital investigations suggest that many of these viral posts were part of a coordinated cyber scam commonly referred to as “Ghost Files.”
The campaign targeted creators from multiple countries, including Filipina influencers Zyan Cabrera (also known as Jerriel Cry4zee) and Vera Hill (ChiChi), Bangladeshi TikToker Angel Nujhat, Indian gaming streamer Payal Dhare, and Pakistani influencer Sara Baloch.
Experts say the scheme used a mix of AI-generated images, deepfakes, and typo-based search manipulation to drive traffic to malicious downloads.
How the ‘Ghost Files’ Scam Works
Cybercrime analysts say the scammers rely on a combination of tactics:
- AI-generated images and videos designed to appear authentic
- Misspelled names to manipulate search engine results
- Specific timestamps such as “19:34” or “12 minutes” to make fake clips look real
- Malicious download links that can install malware on devices
The approach creates curiosity-driven searches that redirect users to suspicious pages.
‘Pinay Gold Medalist’ Viral Video Claim
The Claim:
Two Filipina influencers appear in a controversial video featuring a creator dubbed the “Pinay Gold Medalist.”
The Reality:
False. The widely circulated image of Zyan Cabrera wearing a gold medal was reportedly AI-generated. Investigations indicate that the supposed rivalry between Cabrera and Vera Hill (ChiChi) was fabricated to exploit search trends during international sporting events.
Angel Nujhat ‘12-Minute Video’ Claim
The Claim:
A “12-minute viral clip” involving Bangladeshi TikToker Angel Nujhat had surfaced online.
The Reality:
A scam. The influencer’s real username is @angelnujhat.07, but scammers promoted the misspelled name “Angel Nuzhat.” The typo helped redirect search traffic to fake download links rather than her official profile.
Payal Gaming ‘19:34’ Clip Rumour
The Claim:
A video lasting 19 minutes and 34 seconds allegedly linked to Indian streamer Payal Dhare, known online as Payal Gaming.
The Reality:
Authorities from cyber safety units stated that the clip circulating online was generated using AI deepfake technology. Reports indicate that the “19:34” timestamp referenced a separate and unrelated privacy breach involving individuals in West Bengal, which was falsely connected to the streamer.
Growing Threat of Deepfake Scams
Cybersecurity experts warn that such campaigns are becoming increasingly sophisticated. By targeting popular influencers across different countries, scammers can generate large volumes of search traffic and exploit curiosity-driven clicks.
The incidents highlight the importance of verifying sources and avoiding suspicious links claiming to host “viral” content.
