AI deepfake video used to promote weight-loss scam impersonating Spanish TV presenter
Criminals used AI-generated deepfakes to clone the faces and voices of Spanish TV presenter Manu Sánchez and nutritionist Sandra Moñino in a fraudulent video promoting a weight-loss product. Both victims discovered the scam and filed complaints, with Sánchez calling for urgent AI regulation.
What happened
Scammers used artificial intelligence to create a deepfake video cloning the faces and voices of Antena 3 presenter Manu Sánchez and nutritionist Sandra Moñino. The fraudulent video depicted a fake interview in which both appeared to endorse a weight-loss product, reusing an authentic December interview segment that originally discussed holiday excesses.
Sánchez discovered the deepfake video on 26 June 2025 when colleagues sent it to him while preparing his show's rundown. Moñino learned of the scam through a patient who recognized the fraudulent video. Both filed complaints in response.
Reported impact
Sánchez expressed profound anger at the misuse of his identity and voice for criminal fraud. He warned of the risks posed by irresponsible use of AI and called for immediate legislation to regulate the technology.
Governance controls
Sánchez appealed to the public to continue supporting honest, verified journalism and trustworthy media outlets, citing concerns that those responsible for reporting face a credibility problem due to deepfake technology.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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