Image credit: MrBeast via Instagram
YouTube sensation MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson, has issued a stark warning about the proliferation of deepfake scams on social media platforms. In a tweet, MrBeast exposed a recent deepfake video on TikTok that featured his likeness promoting a seemingly irresistible offer: iPhone 15s for just $2 each.
MrBeast Questions Readiness for Deepfake
The deepfake video displayed a convincingly manipulated version of MrBeast enthusiastically announcing, “I’m MrBeast, and I’m doing the world’s largest iPhone giveaway!” It further provided a link for viewers to claim this too-good-to-be-true deal.
Expressing his concern, MrBeast questioned the readiness of social media platforms to combat the surge in AI-generated deepfake content. He raised a crucial point. He asked, “Are social media platforms ready to handle the rise of AI deepfakes? This is a serious problem.”
In the deceptive TikTok video, an AI-generated version of MrBeast, sporting his iconic pink hoodie and gray baseball cap, enticed viewers with a tantalizing offer. The voice, distinct from MrBeast’s, claimed that a limited number of people could acquire an iPhone 15 Pro for just $2. It directed them to click a provided link.
The video prominently displayed MrBeast’s logo and a username with a verified checkmark. This mimicked the appearance of a legitimate account. However, a visit to MrBeast’s verified Instagram account revealed no such promotion.
MrBeast’s plea comes on the heels of actor Tom Hanks’ similar warning. Hanks disassociated himself from a deepfake video endorsing a dental plan. He emphasized that he had no involvement in its creation.
Not a Unique Case
Deepfakes, driven by advances in AI technology, are becoming increasingly sophisticated. They make it harder for users to distinguish them from authentic content. Although the MrBeast deepfake had minor imperfections, such as occasional lip-sync errors, it shows the alarming realism that AI-powered deepfakes can achieve. This leads to potential deception.
The TikTok ad featuring MrBeast has since been removed. But the incident raises questions about social media platforms’ ability to combat deceptive AI content effectively. TikTok, for instance, declined to comment. However, it referred to its advertising policies, which insist on clear labeling for synthetic or manipulated media.
MrBeast’s case is not unique. Several public figures have faced similar challenges with unauthorized use of their likeness. In another recent incident, Zelda Williams, the daughter of the late actor and comedian Robin Williams, expressed her discomfort with AI recreations of her father circulating on the internet.
Moreover, AI’s impact extends beyond entertainment. Hollywood studios are grappling with the issue in ongoing negotiations with SAG-AFTRA, the actors union.
An Urgent Need to Fight Deep Fake
Further investigation revealed that the image supposedly from MrBeast’s Instagram account had originated as a thumbnail in a video by YouTuber ZHC titled “I Surprised MrBeast With Custom iPhones!” This revelation shed light on the deceptive tactics employed by those behind the deepfake.
The fraudulent page requested users to verify their age as over 18. It showcased several “satisfied customers” flaunting their alleged iPhone 15s.
MrBeast’s call to action against AI deepfake scams highlights the urgent need for social media platforms to bolster their defenses against such content. As technology continues to advance, it is imperative that measures are put in place to protect users from falling victim to these increasingly convincing and deceptive deepfake schemes.
