Tom Hanks issues Instagram warning about fake AI videos

If you see a video ad of Tom Hanks promising you a miracle cure for something, the man himself wants you to know it’s a fake.

On Thursday night, the actor took to Instagram to issue a PSA about AI-generated videos popping up on social media that are using his image.

“There are multiple ads over the internet falsely using my name, likeness, and voice promoting miracles cures and wonder drugs,” reads Hanks’ post. “These ads have been created without my consent, fraudulently and through AI.”

“I have nothing to do with these posts or the products and treatments, or the spokespeople touting these cures,” Hanks continues. “I have type 2 diabetes, and I ONLY work with my board certified doctor regarding my treatment. DO NOT BE FOOLED. DO NOT BE SWINDLED. DO NOT LOSE YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY.”

This isn’t the first time Hanks has issued a warning like this. Last October he shared a screenshot of an AI-generated video of himself “promoting some dental plan” (for some reason Hanks appears to be a go-to for medical-themed AI hoaxes) along with a warning that he has “nothing to do with it”.

AI misinformation is already a growing issue. It seems likely that as the technology becomes more advanced, widespread and accessible, the problem is only going to get worse.