AI-generated fake video impersonates RTK broadcaster Gëzim Bimbashi promoting unlicensed joint cure
AI-generated deepfake video falsely impersonated RTK journalist Gëzim Bimbashi to promote an unlicensed joint cure product in December 2025. The broadcaster confirmed the video was synthetic media and that RTK had not aired such a report, highlighting broader risks of AI-generated disinformation targeting public figures and consumers in the Balkans.
What happened
In December 2025, an AI-generated fake video circulated on social media showing broadcaster and RTK journalist Gëzim Bimbashi presenting a false story about a 20-year-old student who allegedly discovered a formula to cure joint diseases without surgery. The video featured the RTK logo and Bimbashi's image, but used AI to manipulate his voice and likeness.
Bimbashi confirmed to fact-checking platform Krypometër that the voice in the video was not his and that RTK had never broadcast such a report. The video falsely promoted an unlicensed medical product called 'Versatil Pro' and contained misidentifications, including presenting Russian rheumatologist Pavel Evdokimenko as a doctor named 'Fatmir Berisha'.
Reported impact
The fake video targeted consumers with misleading health claims, promoting an unauthorized medical product and false cure for chronic joint diseases. Bimbashi warned that AI-generated disinformation poses a serious risk to journalists, broadcasters and other public figures, with potentially severe consequences for those with influence in society.
Index analysis
The incident reflects a broader pattern of AI-generated fraud in the region. Fact-checking data identified over 220 false medical news articles between January 2025 and January 2026, and similar deepfake videos impersonating public figures such as Albanian journalist and moderator Blendi Fevziu have been used to promote unlicensed medical products.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
This record was researched and written by the Index from original reporting. Its sources are still being verified by an editor, and they are listed here once that check is complete. Until then the record carries no reviewer.