Tom Hanks has released a PSA to warn fans about AI-generated scams that misuse his identity.
At a Glance
- Scammers are using AI deepfakes of Tom Hanks to promote bogus medical products.
- Hanks shared a message on Instagram to clarify he has no connection to these ads.
- He emphasized he only works with his board-certified doctor for his type 2 diabetes treatment.
- Hanks warned his fans to verify the authenticity of any communications or offers.
Hanks Warns of Rising AI-Generated Scams
Tom Hanks has issued a public service announcement concerning fraudulent ads that use AI-generated versions of his likeness to promote fake medical products. The esteemed actor expressed his concern over the rising number of AI-generated scams that mislead the public by using convincing imitations of his appearance and voice. Hanks urged fans to stay vigilant and verify the authenticity of any unexpected communications or offers.
Hanks shared a message on Instagram stating, “There are multiple ads over the internet falsely using my name, likeness, and voice promoting miracle cures and wonder drugs.” He emphasized that these deceptive tactics are done without his consent, stating, “These ads have been created without my consent, fraudulently and through AI.”
Gayle King and Tom Hanks are the latest celebrities to set the record straight on unapproved, AI-generated videos of them promoting products that are scams.
So what is a "deepfake?" https://t.co/rTOdQ6ZrVp
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) October 7, 2023
Emphasizing the Risks
Hanks has made it clear that he has no affiliation with these posts, products, or the individuals promoting them. “I have nothing to do with these posts or the products and treatments, or the spokespeople touting these cures,” Hanks stated. He highlighted his own healthcare routine by mentioning his type 2 diabetes diagnosis and that he exclusively consults his board-certified doctor regarding his treatment.
Hanks’ strong warnings to fans included three all-caps messages: “DO NOT BE FOOLED. DO NOT BE SWINDLED. DO NOT LOSE YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY.”
Tom Hanks Warns Fans Against Internet Scams Using His AI Image: 'Do Not Lose Your Hard Earned Money' https://t.co/ZwIpyPjtJG
— People (@people) August 30, 2024
The Growing AI Problem
The misuse of AI and deepfake technology by scammers is a growing issue. Hanks himself previously warned about a deepfake video promoting a dental plan. Other celebrities targeted by similar scams include Elon Musk, Warren Buffett, MrBeast, Gayle King, Taylor Swift, and Scarlett Johansson, who criticized OpenAI for using a voice similar to hers without consent. Johansson’s position was supported by SAG-AFTRA, which advocates for legislation to protect voices and likenesses.
Hanks discussed the increasing use of AI in entertainment, noting his experience with imaging technology during the creation of “The Polar Express” in 2004. He also talked about the potential for AI to recreate actors at any age, allowing performances to continue with lifelike quality, even posthumously.
