American star Tom Hanks recently took to social media to warn his followers about the misuse of his image and voice in fraudulent advertisements promoting illegal drugs. In a public service announcement shared via Instagram Stories, the 68-year-old actor expressed his concerns regarding the exploitation of his digital identity through artificial intelligence techniques. Hanks stated, "There are multiple online ads falsely using my name, likeness and voice to promote miracle cures and wonder drugs that were fraudulently created without my consent using artificial intelligence."
He emphasized that he has no affiliation with these misleading publications or products and cautioned fans to be vigilant against such scams. Hanks, who has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, mentioned that he only consults his physician for treatment advice, urging his followers, "Do not be deceived and do not lose your hard-earned money on it." This public warning is not the first of its kind; Hanks previously addressed similar concerns in October when a fake video featuring an AI-generated version of him promoted a dental plan.
The issue of digital identity theft in advertising is not limited to Hanks. Other celebrities, including Scarlett Johansson, Luke Combs, Piers Morgan, and Oprah Winfrey, have also fallen victim to AI-generated ads that exploit their likenesses. Johansson even filed a lawsuit against a company that used her image and voice without permission. As the prevalence of AI technology grows, Hanks has called on lawmakers to strengthen protections against such exploitation.
Despite these challenges, Tom Hanks remains active in the film industry. He is set to star in two upcoming projects, including 'The Phoenician Scheme', which is scheduled for release in 2025, and a film titled 'HERE', where he reunites with Robin Wright. 'HERE' is based on Richard Maguire's novel and uniquely unfolds over a century, with the camera fixed in one location throughout the film's runtime.
- The rising concern over the unauthorized use of celebrity images and voices in AI-generated content highlights a significant issue in the entertainment industry. As technology advances, it becomes increasingly important for both celebrities and lawmakers to address the implications of digital identity theft. The legal framework surrounding these practices is still evolving, and many advocates are calling for stricter regulations to protect individuals from having their likeness exploited without consent.
- In addition to Hanks and Johansson, many other public figures have begun to speak out against this trend. The entertainment community is rallying for more awareness and protective measures, emphasizing the need for ethical standards in the use of AI technology. As audiences become more aware of these issues, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and informed about the authenticity of advertisements they encounter online.
