Deepfake video of Dr. Schwab Richárd spreads on social media
A deepfake video impersonating Hungarian gastroenterologist Dr. Schwab Richárd circulated on social media, using AI-manipulated audio and video to falsely portray him endorsing unverified health products while condemning conventional medical treatments. Dr. Schwab filed a police report and publicly denied the claims, confirming he does not promote or sell any health products.
What happened
An artificially generated deepfake video spread on social media showing Dr. Schwab Richárd, a gastroenterologist and internal medicine specialist, appearing to condemn doctors who prescribe traditional blood pressure medications and endorsing counterfeit alternative products.
The video used manipulated audio and visual elements of Dr. Schwab's voice and likeness in what appeared to be a response to broadcaster Friderikusz Sándor's questions. A lawyer assisting the case confirmed that both the audio and video components were demonstrably manipulated using modern deepfake technology.
Reported impact
Dr. Schwab stated that despite the obvious falsity of the manipulation, many vulnerable and deceived patients contacted his clinic based on the fraudulent content, prompting him to go public alongside filing a police report.
Dr. Schwab clarified that neither he nor any of his associated businesses have ever promoted, recommended, or sold dietary supplements or medications of any kind.
Index analysis
The case involves use of artificial intelligence to create synthetic media impersonating a medical professional to promote unverified health products and undermine trust in conventional medical treatments.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.