Tom Hanks Warns Fans of Deepfake Scams Using His Likeness
Hollywood icon Tom Hanks has issued a stern warning to his fans about fraudulent deepfake advertisements that are using his likeness without consent. In a recent public service announcement posted on Instagram, the Academy Award-winning actor urged people to be vigilant and not fall victim to these scams.
“BEWARE!! There’s a video out there promoting some dental plan with an AI version of me. I have nothing to do with it,” Hanks emphatically stated in his post. The actor’s frustration was palpable as he emphasized that these ads were created without his permission and were entirely fraudulent.
This is not the first time Hanks has been targeted by such deceptive practices. In October, he alerted his followers about a similar deepfake video promoting a dental plan. The recurring nature of these scams has taken its toll on the actor, who expressed his exasperation at having to repeatedly address these issues.
The problem extends beyond just Tom Hanks. Other celebrities have also fallen victim to deepfake scams. Recently, Tom Cruise’s voice was used in a propaganda clip, highlighting the growing sophistication of these fraudulent activities. Even more concerning is the use of deepfake technology to create nonconsensual pornography, affecting both famous and non-famous women.
While the internet has long been a breeding ground for fraud and scammers, the advent of AI technology has exacerbated these issues. The Federal Trade Commission is actively working to crack down on such fraudulent activities, but the rapid advancement of technology poses significant challenges.
In light of these growing threats, experts advise extra caution when encountering online content, particularly advertisements for drugs and supplements. Consumers are urged to avoid suspicious Facebook ads and other questionable online promotions.
As Tom Hanks succinctly put it in his warning: “DO NOT BE SWINDLED.” His message serves as a stark reminder for internet users to remain vigilant and skeptical in the face of increasingly sophisticated online scams.
By
