A recent wave of deceptive advertisements has emerged on social media platforms, leveraging deepfake technology to impersonate well-known figures like Elon Musk and Fox News personalities. These ads claim that Musk has discovered a miraculous 30-second "fridge trick" to reverse diabetes, leading to a bounty placed on his head by pharmaceutical companies. However, this narrative is entirely fabricated, part of an elaborate scam designed to sell unverified supplements. The ads have been widely circulated on Facebook, often evading detection by Meta's policies against medical misinformation. Despite the removal of some ads, many pages continue to run similar content, exploiting unsuspecting users with false promises.

The phenomenon began in early February when numerous Facebook pages started running versions of these misleading ads. These pages, disguised as health and wellness resources, used AI-generated videos and audio to create convincing deepfakes. The format typically starts with a discussion about Musk's supposed discovery, followed by manipulated clips of him from public appearances. Viewers are then directed to websites mimicking mainstream news outlets, where they are encouraged to purchase dubious supplements like Gluco Revive. This supplement, marketed as offering "blood support," contains ingredients such as juniper berry powder and bitter melon extract but does not claim to treat diabetes.

The FDA has repeatedly warned consumers against over-the-counter diabetes treatments, emphasizing that no dietary supplements can cure or treat diabetes. Yet, these scams persist, with thousands of sales reported for products like Gluco Revive on Amazon. Reviews indicate dissatisfaction and potential harm, with some users reporting increased blood sugar levels. The fraudulent nature of these operations becomes apparent when customers attempt returns, only to find nonexistent addresses or unresponsive suppliers.

Snopes reporter Jordan Liles has identified and debunked several of these ads, noting their persistence suggests financial success. The scammers capitalize on the public's trust in celebrities and reputable news sources, using deepfake technology to add credibility. Meta has taken steps to address the issue, removing some pages and investigating others, but the rapid proliferation of new ads continues to challenge their efforts. The use of deepfakes in these scams represents a concerning evolution in online fraud, highlighting the need for greater vigilance and regulation.

As these deceptive campaigns evolve, it's crucial for consumers to remain skeptical of sensational health claims and verify information through reliable sources. Regulatory bodies and social media platforms must collaborate to combat the spread of such misinformation, protecting vulnerable individuals from falling victim to these scams. The ongoing battle against deepfake-driven fraud underscores the importance of digital literacy and awareness in today's interconnected world.