"DO NOT BE SWINDLED": Here's Why Tom Hanks Issued A Public Service Announcement About Some AI Ads

Tom Hanks has issued a strong statement against medical ads made with AI that "fraudulently" use his name, likeness, and voice.

Tom Hanks in a close-up shot, wearing a dark suit jacket, against a blurred background with partial text
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In an Instagram post on Thursday, the actor made what he called a "public service announcement" and captioned the statement: "EXTRA! EXTRA!! READ ALL ABOUT IT!!"

Tom Hanks stands in a classic suit with a dark tie at an Oscars event
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"There are multiple ads over the internet falsely using my name, likeness, and voice promoting miracle cure and wonder drugs," he wrote.

Tom Hanks stands in front of a textured backdrop, wearing a dark suit with a dark turtleneck
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While Hanks didn't specify which specific medical ads he was opposing, he clarified, "These ads have been created without my consent, fraudulently, and through AI."

Tom Hanks smiles at an event in formal attire with a background including a wagon wheel
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"I have nothing to do with these posts or the products and treatments, or the spokespeople touting these cures," he continued.

Tom Hanks at a formal event, wearing a classic tuxedo and bow tie, with a slight smile on his face
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Hanks revealed in 2013 that he has Type 2 diabetes and noted in his Instagram post that he "only" works with board-certified doctors regarding his treatment. He ended his statement with three directives: "DO NOT BE FOOLED," "DO NOT BE SWINDLED," and "DO NOT LOSE YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY."

Tom Hanks is smiling while standing in a sports stadium. He is wearing glasses, a zip-up sweater, a shirt, and a tie
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This isn't the first time the actor has warned about fake AI ads. In October, he also said on Instagram, "BEWARE!! There's a video out there promoting some dental plan with an AI version of me. I have nothing to do with it."

  Lester Cohen / Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Lester Cohen / Getty Images for The Recording Academy

You can read about how to spot AI content, including deepfake images or videos, here.