TikTok account uses AI deepfake of medical expert to sell health products
Malaysian police identified a TikTok account using AI-generated deepfake video and voice impersonating a medical expert to promote health products without authorization. Authorities warned the public that the counterfeit products being advertised could be harmful and advised caution about health product promotions on social media.
What happened
A TikTok account called 'Malaysia Shopping Mall' posted videos promoting health products using AI-generated voice and video impersonating medical expert Prof Datuk Dr Nordin Darus, according to the Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department.
The voice and video of Prof Datuk Dr Nordin Darus were used without his permission, and the impersonations were produced using artificial intelligence technology.
Reported impact
The Bukit Aman CCID warned that the AI-generated advertisements were intended to confuse and mislead buyers.
Police cautioned the public that the health products being promoted through these impersonations may be counterfeit and could have detrimental effects on users.
Index analysis
The incident demonstrates how AI technology has enabled the creation of synthetic media depicting real individuals without consent, using their faces and voices to build false credibility for product promotions.
Governance controls
The Bukit Aman CCID identified the fraudulent account and issued a public warning advising consumers to be cautious of health product advertisements on social media, particularly from questionable sources.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.