AI scams targeting doctors: be aware and prepared

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By Dr Cyra Mackintosh

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that is permeating our lives at lightning speed. There is a huge amount of good that AI can do and I hope we continue to work in a direction that is safe, productive and meaningful. Unfortunately, not everything AI is used for is beneficial to us. Here are some AI scams, some particularly targeting doctors, that you will want to be aware of.

1. Deepfakes - video and voice-cloning

If you’re a well-known and trusted member of the medical profession, there is a high risk that AI could be used to impersonate your likeness to peddle anything from dangerous misinformation to products like supplements and miracle cures. Many high-profile doctors across the globe have been targeted by internet deepfakes. In the UK, Drs Rangan Chatterjee, Michael Mosely and Hilary Jones have all been victims. Deepfakes of doctors have also been used to scam members of the public out of money, often making the real doctor a target. Spotting deepfakes can be incredibly difficult, therefore maintaining a stance (eg that you will never recommend supplements/ particular products/ treatments etc) might help members of the public spot a deepfake.