Tom Hanks Slams Medical AI Ads Using His Likeness Without Consent

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

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!!”

“There are multiple ads over the internet falsely using my name, likeness, and voice promoting miracle cure and wonder drugs,” he wrote.

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.”

“I have nothing to do with these posts or the products and treatments, or the spokespeople touting these cures,” he continued.

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.”

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.”

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