AI-Generated Deepfakes of Monica Anghel Used in Fraudulent Weight Loss Ads
Romanian singer Monica Anghel's image and voice were reportedly used in deepfake videos without her consent to promote fraudulent weight loss and skincare products online. At least one person was reportedly harmed after using a product falsely endorsed by the deepfake advertisement.
What happened
Monica Anghel's image and voice were used without consent in online advertisements for weight loss and anti-aging products. In the videos, her appearance and lip movements were manipulated to appear as though she was endorsing the products, with her voice altered to match.
The deepfake advertisements falsely attributed statements to Anghel about the products' effectiveness, including claims that they reduce wrinkles and treat skin conditions. Anghel reported that the fraudulent campaign has been ongoing for more than six months.
Reported impact
A former schoolmate of Anghel's reportedly used one of the advertised products based on the false endorsement and was hospitalized as a result. Anghel stated that her reputation has been damaged by the unauthorized use of her image and identity to promote unverified products.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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