AI-generated Deepfakes of Doctors Fuel Health Misinformation Surge on Social Media
A wave of AI-generated deepfakes featuring prominent doctors is spreading health misinformation across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and YouTube, raising concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking medical advice. The deceptive videos, linked too a company called Wellness Nest and its UK affiliate Wellness Nest UK, have impersonated figures including Professor Tim Spector and the late Dr. Michael Mosley.
Full Fact, a UK-based fact-checking organization, identified the deepfakes, noting one video mimicking a medical demonstration was “a complete fake from beginning to end,” according to expert Dr. Selbie, who described it as not “funny” given the potential for harm. Wellness Nest claims the videos promoting their website are “100% unaffiliated” with their business and asserts they “never used AI-generated content,” but acknowledge an inability to control international affiliates.
The deepfakes are prompting calls for stricter regulation and intervention. Liberal Democrat health spokesperson Helen Morgan stated, “From fake doctors to bots that encourage suicide, AI is being used to prey on innocent people and exploit the widening cracks in our health system.” Morgan advocates for the elimination of medical deepfakes and the promotion of clinically approved tools, questioning why the digital equivalent of fraudulent medical practice isn’t subject to criminal prosecution. She proposes automatic referrals to NHS support for individuals seeking advice from AI bots and criminal liability for those profiting from medical disinformation.
TikTok has removed content featuring the deepfakes of doctors Taylor-Robinson and Selbie, citing violations of its rules against harmful misinformation and impersonation. A TikTok spokesperson acknowledged the challenge of AI-generated content, stating the platform continues to invest in detection and removal efforts. the Department of Health and Social care has been contacted for comment.
