AI-Generated 'Doctors' Are Spreading Health Misinformation
Have you ever seen a 'doctor' on social media recommending a fruit that can 'starve cancer cells' or claiming that certain vaccines cause 'turbo cancers'? These seemingly professional suggestions may come from AI-generated fake accounts.
An investigation by Maldita.es has found at least 230 accounts on Facebook posing as doctors, grandparents, or healers, publishing large volumes of low-quality, AI-generated content (often called 'AI slop'). These accounts have a combined following of 81 million users and spread false 'miracle cures' for cancer, dementia, and diabetes.
Common Tactics of These Fake Accounts
- Impersonation: Using AI-generated avatars with white coats, stethoscopes, or clinic backgrounds, and including words like 'doctor' or 'dr' in their names.
- Exaggerated Claims: Publishing unsupported statements like 'These four fruits starve cancer cells,' 'Coffee can stop cancer,' or 'Turmeric can destroy colon cancer.'
- Engagement Bait: Asking users to comment specific words (e.g., 'NATURAL') to receive a supposed ebook or guide.
- Monetization: Redirecting users to external links to purchase supplements, books, or subscribe to dubious paid services, potentially exposing them to phishing scams.
Why Is This Dangerous?
This misinformation not only delays patients from receiving proper treatment but can also cause financial loss. In Spain, impersonating a doctor is a criminal offense. Under the EU's Digital Services Act, Facebook, as a 'Very Large Online Platform,' has a legal obligation to mitigate such systemic risks, yet its enforcement appears to be significantly lacking.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family?
- Verify Sources: Do not trust health advice on social media, especially from accounts asking you to buy products or provide personal information.
- Consult Professionals: Always seek advice from qualified medical professionals regarding treatment for any disease.
- Follow Authoritative Bodies: Rely on information from official organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) or your national health authority.
Health information is a matter of life and death; please stay vigilant. To better manage your health data, you can download the Xiaoshu Health App, which syncs metrics like steps, heart rate, and sleep from Apple's Health app to help you understand your body scientifically.