Short answer
Many are fake. Scammers use AI to put a doctor's face, or a well-known presenter, into a video praising a product that "cures" diabetes, joint pain or high blood pressure. Some use the real names of real doctors who never agreed to it. The products may be useless or harmful, and some sellers take money and send nothing.
Before buying any health product from a video, ask your own doctor or pharmacist, and never stop prescribed medicine because of an ad.
What to do when you see one
- Don't order from the video, and don't call the number in it.
- Ask your doctor or a pharmacist about the product and show them the video.
- Look up the doctor's hospital through its official website and check whether they really say this.
- Report the video on the platform.
- If you bought something and feel unwell, stop using it and see a doctor.
- Talk to older relatives, who are often the main target of these ads.
Signs of a fake health video
- The product cures a serious long-term illness quickly, or works "for everyone".
- It tells you to stop your current medicine.
- The lip movements don't match the voice, or the face looks oddly smooth.
- The comments are all praise, often with similar wording.
- There is a discount that ends today, or stock is "almost gone".
- You can only buy it through a chat message or a phone call, with payment by transfer.
Why these videos are convincing
A white coat, a hospital background and a calm voice signal expertise. AI makes it easy to produce these clips at scale and to copy the faces of trusted people. The story often includes a patient who recovered, which makes it emotional and easy to share in family groups.
Protecting parents and grandparents
Show them one of these fake videos and explain how it was made. Agree that before buying any medicine or supplement online, they will ask you or their doctor first. Offer to check together, without making them feel silly. A quick, friendly call usually works better than a lecture.
If they have already ordered and paid, keep the order details and seller's number, and report to the police if the seller refuses to respond.
Common questions
The video uses a doctor I recognise. Can I trust it?
Not on its own. Real doctors' faces and names are copied without permission. Check with their hospital through official contact details.
Is it safe if the product is herbal?
Natural does not mean safe. Some products contain hidden drugs or interact with medicine you take. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first.
How do I report a fake medicine ad?
Report it on the platform. If you lost money, keep the evidence and report to the police on 113 or at your local station.
Reviewed October 2026