Tom Hanks warns fans likeness being used AI-generated ads
News & Politics
Introduction
Tom Hanks, the beloved actor known for his iconic roles in films such as Forrest Gump and Cast Away, recently raised concerns about the unauthorized use of his likeness in AI-generated advertisements. In a social media post on Instagram, Hanks alerted his followers about the proliferation of ads that falsely utilize his name, image, and voice to promote dubious products, including miracle cures and wonder drugs.
Hanks emphasized the fraudulent nature of these advertisements, stating that they have been created without his consent. He urged his fans not to be fooled or swindled, cautioning them to protect their hard-earned money from these scams. This issue has become increasingly prevalent online, as consumers struggle to discern between genuine endorsements from celebrities and AI-generated fabrications.
This isn't the first time Hanks has spoken out against the misuse of his likeness. Last October, he warned his audience about an unauthorized dental plan that was falsely promoting itself using his image. The improper use of AI technology has emerged as a significant concern within Hollywood, as many celebrities express dissatisfaction with how their likenesses and voices are being exploited without their permission.
Scarlett Johansson, another prominent actress, also voiced her concerns when she discovered that a chatbot named Sky, developed by OpenAI, featured a voice that sounded eerily similar to hers. Even after declining an offer to be the voice of the AI system, she found it unsettling that an AI could imitate her persona. The issue of AI misuse extends beyond acting, infiltrating the music industry as well. Artists have reported their voices being artificially generated in songs they never recorded, exemplified by a viral rendition of Beyoncé's song “Cuff It,” which features Rihanna’s voice using AI technology.
As technology continues to evolve, the potential for misuse of artificial intelligence in creative industries raises questions about consent, authenticity, and consumer protection.
Keywords
- Tom Hanks
- AI-generated ads
- Unauthorized use
- Likeness
- Fraudulent advertisements
- Social media
- Celebrity endorsements
- Scarlett Johansson
- Music industry
- Artificial intelligence
FAQ
Q: What did Tom Hanks warn about regarding his likeness?
A: Tom Hanks warned that his likeness, image, and voice are being used without his consent in fraudulent AI-generated advertisements promoting dubious products.
Q: What types of products are being promoted in these ads?
A: The ads falsely using Hanks' likeness promote miracle cures and wonder drugs.
Q: Has Tom Hanks spoken out about this issue before?
A: Yes, Hanks previously warned about unauthorized use of his likeness in an advertisement for a dental plan.
Q: Is misuse of AI technology confined to acting?
A: No, misuse of AI technology is also prevalent in the music industry, with artists' voices being artificially generated in songs they never recorded.
Q: How are consumers affected by these AI-generated ads?
A: Consumers often find it difficult to differentiate between legitimate celebrity endorsements and AI-generated fabrications, putting them at risk of being misled.