In a disturbing new trend that threatens public trust in healthcare, sophisticated artificial intelligence is being weaponised to create convincing deepfake videos of real NHS doctors endorsing dubious health products.
Cybercriminals are using publicly available footage of medical professionals from television interviews and online content to create fraudulent endorsements for unproven weight loss pills, supplements, and other health remedies. These AI-generated clones perfectly mimic doctors' voices, mannerisms, and even their clothing, making the scams incredibly difficult to detect.
The Anatomy of a Medical Deepfake Scam
The process begins with scammers identifying reputable doctors who have appeared in media segments. Using advanced AI tools, they create digital clones that can say anything the fraudsters program them to. These deepfake doctors then appear in social media advertisements and YouTube videos promoting miracle cures and quick-fix solutions.
One particularly alarming case involved Dr. Amir Khan, a well-known NHS doctor and television personality. His digital clone was used to promote a suspicious weight loss supplement, falsely claiming it could help users lose weight "without diet or exercise." The real Dr. Khan only discovered the scam when alerted by concerned viewers.
Why This Poses a Critical Threat
Medical deepfakes represent a particularly dangerous form of fraud because they exploit the trust patients place in healthcare professionals. Unlike celebrity endorsements, doctors' recommendations carry significant weight in health decisions, making these scams potentially life-threatening if patients abandon proven treatments for fraudulent alternatives.
The sophistication of these deepfakes has reached alarming levels. The fake videos show doctors wearing the same clothing as in their original media appearances, with perfectly synced lip movements and voice patterns that even include characteristic speech cadences and pauses.
The Growing Scale of the Problem
Cybersecurity experts report seeing hundreds of these medical deepfake scams circulating on social media platforms. The campaigns are highly targeted, often aimed at vulnerable individuals searching for solutions to weight issues, hair loss, or other health concerns.
These operations are financially motivated, with scammers earning substantial commissions through affiliate marketing schemes. Some investigations have traced these campaigns to organised networks operating across multiple countries.
Protecting Yourself from Medical Deepfakes
Health authorities recommend several precautions:
- Be sceptical of doctors promoting specific products on social media
- Verify any health advice through official NHS channels
- Look for verified accounts on social media platforms
- Report suspicious medical advertisements to the relevant platform
- Consult your GP before trying any new health product
The rise of medical deepfakes represents a new frontier in health misinformation, requiring increased vigilance from both the public and technology platforms to prevent these sophisticated scams from undermining trust in healthcare professionals.
