AI-Generated Video Falsely Shows Immunologist Promoting Parasite Product
A deepfake video falsely depicting Croatian immunologist Stipan Jonjić recommending an anti-parasite product was posted on Facebook in August 2024. Jonjić confirmed the video is entirely fabricated using AI technology. At least one consumer was defrauded and spent money purchasing the advertised product based on the false endorsement.
What happened
On 27 August 2024, a video was posted on a suspicious Facebook page titled 'Sepenuhnya alami' purporting to show Croatian immunologist Stipan Jonjić, professor at the University of Rijeka's School of Histology and Embryology and head of the Center for Proteomics, recommending an unspecified natural parasite remedy.
Jonjić confirmed to faktograf.hr that the video is completely fabricated using AI and that he never spoke these words. The video shows clear signs of deepfake technology, with audio that does not match lip movements despite resembling his actual voice.
Reported impact
At least one person was deceived by the fake video and purchased the advertised product online, spending significant money based on the false endorsement, only to learn afterwards that the video was fraudulent.
Index analysis
The deepfake video demonstrates the technology's capability to create convincing synthetic media linking respected medical professionals to unverified health products, creating potential for consumer deception and financial loss.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.