verifi launches AI-driven real-time fake photo detection tool

verifi has unveiled a new image authentication tool designed to detect fake photographs submitted during remote asset inspections, responding to a growing trend of fraud in the asset finance industry.

The tool, named spuuf, is now integrated into verifi’s remote inspection platform, “self-certifi.” It uses advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to verify the authenticity of images in real time, flagging potential fraud at the moment photographs are taken.

The move comes amid increasing concerns from lenders about borrowers and intermediaries submitting manipulated or entirely fabricated images to support finance applications or satisfy in-life audit requirements. These include so-called “photos of photos” — images taken of an asset displayed on another screen — as well as AI-generated “deepfake” content.

Jonathan Garnett, verifi co-founder, said the new tool addresses an urgent issue for lenders operating in an increasingly digital environment.

“We must recognise that the digital shift which is happening introduces new risks, such as the increasing use of fake or manipulated photos to obtain finance or evidence compliance with in-life audit requirements,” Garnett said. “That’s why we’re excited to introduce spuuf, a cutting-edge machine learning tool designed to detect fake photos in real-time and further protect lenders using our inspection platform from potential losses arising from manipulated information about their assets.”

spuuf uses agentic AI models to detect subtle signs of image manipulation. By analysing metadata, device sensor input, and pixel-level anomalies, the tool evaluates whether the photos are genuine and taken in real-time, or if they have been altered or staged.

If anomalies are detected, lenders receive an automated “spuuf alert” to prompt further investigation.

The launch builds on verifi’s self-certifi platform, which enables borrowers, brokers, and dealers to complete remote inspections using their mobile devices. The system captures not only imagery, but also contextual metadata such as geolocation and timestamps, with images required to be taken live within a closed software environment, reducing opportunities for deception.

Since launching self-certifi in 2023, verifi reports having reviewed thousands of inspections and flagged a rising number of suspicious submissions. According to the company, a single fraudulent inspection can have a disproportionate impact on a lender’s portfolio, prompting the need for more robust preventative tools.

The introduction of spuuf aims to automate parts of the manual photo review process, provide stronger fraud detection capabilities, and support lenders’ regulatory and operational risk management obligations.

The company says it will continue to expand its suite of technologies to help lenders gain greater visibility over financed assets without relying on in-person site visits.