Jennifer Aniston deepfake video exposes AI deception in media

A recent viral video featuring Hollywood actress Jennifer Aniston has been exposed as a sophisticated deepfake scam, raising concerns about the deceptive use of artificial intelligence in media. The video, which quickly amassed around one million views on Facebook, falsely portrayed Aniston discussing how she maintains her fitness in her fifties, attributing her physique to collagen supplements.

The video appeared on a wellness-oriented Facebook page and showed what seemed to be Aniston, now 55, in conversation with fellow actress Nicole Kidman. However, the original clip was part of a Hollywood Reporter roundtable discussion with Aniston, Kidman, Naomi Watts, and Sofia Vergara, where they were discussing the acting industry. The scammers manipulated the video by replacing the audio with an AI-generated voice that convincingly mimicked Aniston’s tone and speaking style.

The intention behind the altered video was commercial; it aimed to promote and sell health supplements by making false claims about their benefits. British fitness influencer Ben Carpenter, renowned for debunking misleading wellness content on social media, was alerted to the scam by a concerned follower. Carpenter has since been vocal about the false nature of the video, striving to rectify the misinformation spread by the deepfake.

Jennifer Aniston, known for her enviable physique, has discussed the benefits of collagen before, particularly as part of her role as Chief Creative Officer for Vital Proteins. However, the company focuses on collagen for health and skin benefits rather than weight loss, distancing itself from the exaggerated claims made in the deepfake.

The incident highlights broader issues surrounding deepfake technology, showcasing how easily it can be used to manipulate public perception, especially targeting a demographic that idealises celebrities and may be more vulnerable to misinformation related to health and wellness.

As artificial intelligence continues to develop, the ability to discern real from fake content becomes increasingly vital. The manipulation of not just images but also voices of beloved public figures without their knowledge underscores the potential for significant misinformation in the digital age.

Representatives of Jennifer Aniston have yet to comment on the situation. However, the incident serves as a digital cautionary tale, reminding audiences of the complexity and potential deceitful nature of AI-generated content.

Source: Noah Wire Services