On August 29, Tom Hanks issued a public service announcement on his Instagram account, warning his fans about a scam being circulated in his name.
The legendary actor warned his fans to be extra careful when viewing any adverts that appear to involve him.
“There are multiple advertisements on the internet using my name, likeness and voice to promote miracle cures and medicines,” the two-time Oscar-winning actor claimed, sounding the alarm for fans who might otherwise have been duped. “These advertisements have been fraudulently and created by AI without my consent.”
The 68-year-old star also urged his 9.5 million followers to be especially careful when looking at adverts which may be linked to his name.
He reiterated that he did not initiate or in any way support the false advertising campaign.
“I am in no way associated with these posts, products, treatments, or any spokespeople promoting these treatments,” Hanks said in a statement.
LOS ANGELES, CA – JANUARY 10: Tom Hanks attends the World Premiere of Apple TV+'s Masters of the Air at the Regency Village Theatre on January 10, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/FilmMagic) Getty Images
The star shared a personal message for his fans.
“I have type 2 diabetes and only consult with specialists for treatment,” he said.
The famous actor did not specify which ads were allegedly being unfairly promoted, nor did he specifically mention the products that were featured.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 9, 2024: Tom Hanks attends the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' 14th Annual Governors Awards Ceremony at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/WireImage) Getty Images
Hanks seemed worried that his fans would misunderstand, so he wrote the rest of his message in capital letters to draw attention to his message.
“Don't be fooled. Don't be fooled. Don't lose your hard earned money,” Hanks concluded. (Related: Hackers take over Sydney Sweeney's phone and X account: Report)
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 3, 2024: (Editorial Only) Tom Hanks attends the 66th Annual GRAMMY Pre-GRAMMY Gala and GRAMMY Awards Salute to Industry Icons at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California on February 3, 2024. (Photo by Momodou Mansaray/WireImage) Getty Images
He captioned the message, “BREAKING NEWS! BREAKING NEWS!! Read the whole thing!!”
Hanks has previously spoken out against an artificial intelligence-based replica of his likeness being falsely created in 2023.
