Deepfake Video Impersonates University Rector, Advises Against Blood Pressure Medication
A deepfake video impersonating the rector of Semmelweis University circulated online advising patients against taking prescribed blood pressure medication. The university warned the content poses serious health risks and said it would take legal action.
What happened
A deepfake video created with artificial intelligence circulated on YouTube and social media platforms depicting Dr. Merkely Béla, rector of Semmelweis University and director of the Városmajori Heart and Vascular Clinic, advising patients against taking prescribed blood pressure medication.
The fake video was designed to mislead users, particularly vulnerable populations such as elderly people, by making them distrust their prescribed medications.
Reported impact
Semmelweis University warned that the content poses a serious health risk, as suddenly stopping prescribed blood pressure medication can cause serious complications and significant health deterioration.
The university advised patients to modify or suspend prescribed medication only after consulting with their treating physician, and called on people to inform elderly relatives and neighbors about such AI-enabled fraud schemes.
Index analysis
The deepfake was created using artificial intelligence technology to produce a realistic video impersonating a trusted medical authority to manipulate patient behavior regarding prescribed treatment.
Governance controls
Semmelweis University stated it would take necessary legal steps in response to the incident.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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