Scam library
Fake celebrity endorsement ads
Ads and videos that use real celebrities, often AI fakes, to sell supplements, crypto or 'secrets'.
Social interactions today214
TrendRising
Last 14 days
How much people are talking about "deepfake ad" online, measured by LunarCrush. Attention, not a count of victims.
What it looks like
Video ad: A famous TV host says, "I lost 40 pounds with this one gummy. They didn't want me to share this." Shop now at example-gummies.com
Ad: Beloved actor's shocking statement on live TV leaves the hosts speechless. Read more on news-example.com
Video ad: A famous billionaire says, "I'm giving every American a chance to earn $3,000 a week with my new platform."
How it works
Scammers buy ads on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Google using celebrity photos or AI deepfake videos. The link often goes to a fake news article that leads to a product with hidden subscriptions, or an investment sign-up where an 'advisor' calls you. They want your card, your deposit or your personal details.
Warning signs
- A celebrity's voice or lips look slightly off in the video
- A fake news page with a dramatic headline
- A secret they 'don't want you to know'
- Miracle health results or guaranteed profits
- The web address does not match a real news site
If you got one of these
- Do not click. A paid ad is not a sign of legitimacy. Ad review is mostly automated and scam ads get through.
- Report it: tap the three dots on the ad and choose Report.
- Check the celebrity's own verified accounts. They rarely endorse products in random ads.
- Search the product name with the word scam.
If you already paid or shared something
- Call your card's fraud number and dispute the charge. Ask about canceling any recurring charges.
- If you signed up for investing, stop sending money and report it at ic3.gov.
- Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Who gets targeted
Fans of TV personalities, people with health concerns and people looking for extra income.
Also read: Can a video call be faked?