The internet is rife with scams, and the latest involves exploiting the name and image of singer and talk show host Kelly Clarkson to promote fraudulent keto weight loss gummies. This article delves into the details of these scams, clarifies Clarkson's actual weight loss methods, and provides tips on how to identify and avoid such deceptive practices.
The Anatomy of the Scam
Scammers are leveraging AI technology to create altered videos that appear to show Kelly Clarkson endorsing keto weight loss gummies. These deepfake videos often circulate on social media platforms, falsely claiming that Clarkson is sharing a "secret method" to lose weight without dieting or exercise. The altered video makes it look like she’s selling keto weight loss gummies. The voice in these videos sounds convincingly like Clarkson, and the visual manipulation, while often subtle, can deceive unsuspecting viewers.
One altered video shows Clarkson supposedly saying, "Today I’ll share a secret method on how to lose weight without dieting or going to the gym… This is our only licensed product… We promise you will lose 35 pounds in three weeks.” However, a closer examination reveals discrepancies between her lip movements and speech, a telltale sign of a deepfake.
In reality, Kelly Clarkson has been open about her weight loss journey, attributing it to following the guidance in a book called "The Plant Paradox," which advocates avoiding specific foods like soy, sugar, sweeteners, beans, and grains. She has never endorsed any keto gummies or weight loss pills.
Identifying the Red Flags
Several red flags can help you identify these keto gummy scams:
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- Miraculous claims: Be wary of products promising rapid and effortless weight loss without any dietary changes or exercise. If someone says you don’t have to watch what you eat to lose weight, that’s a scam. If someone says using their product helps you lose weight permanently, that’s a scam. If someone tells you that, to lose weight, all you have to do is take their pill, that’s a scam. If someone promises that you can lose 30 pounds in 30 days, that’s a scam.
- Celebrity endorsements: Scammers often use celebrity endorsements to lend credibility to their products. Always verify the authenticity of these endorsements by checking official sources.
- Altered videos: Pay close attention to the visuals and audio in videos featuring celebrity endorsements. Look for inconsistencies in lip movements, speech patterns, and overall video quality.
- Fake reviews: Be skeptical of glowing reviews, as scammers often write them themselves or pay others to do so.
- Suspicious websites: Check the website's domain name, contact information, and overall design. Scammers often use generic or unprofessional-looking websites.
- Pressure tactics: Be wary of websites or ads that pressure you to buy quickly with limited-time offers or claims of limited stock.
The "Shark Tank" Connection
Scammers also falsely associate keto gummies with the popular TV show "Shark Tank." They create fake ads featuring doctored photos of the sharks (investors) and claim that the sharks have endorsed the product.
However, "Shark Tank" executive producer Clay Newbill has stated, “I can tell you, we don’t put keto diet pills on our show.” The sharks themselves are also fed up with the fraud. Shark Kevin O’Leary has said, “I don't take weight-loss pills and I don’t take drugs and don’t use marijuana creams and all this stuff.”
BurnWell Keto ACV Gummies: A Case Study
One specific keto gummy scam that has gained traction is the "BurnWell Keto ACV Gummies" scam. Scammers use Kelly Clarkson's name and image, along with fake "Shark Tank" endorsements, to promote this product.
Numerous fake reviews praise the gummies for their supposed weight loss benefits. However, these reviews are entirely fabricated. The truth is that Kelly Clarkson never endorsed any keto gummies, and BurnWell Keto ACV Gummies will not help you lose weight.
Furthermore, these scams often involve subscription charges of hundreds of dollars a month and may involve fake return addresses, making it difficult to get a refund.
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The Deeper Dive into AI and Deepfakes
The use of AI in creating deepfakes has made it increasingly challenging to distinguish between real and fake content. Siwei Lyu, a University at Buffalo computer science and engineering professor and co-director of the university’s Center for Information Integrity, has analyzed deepfakes of Clarkson.
Lyu's team found that the lips are usually partially closed for bilabial sounds. In phonetics, ‘bilabial’ refers to the use of both upper and lower lips to articulate a consonant, such as ‘b, p, m, n." Lyu's team took screenshots showing that Clarkson's mouth appeared open, not closed, when those sounds were made.
This analysis highlights the subtle but detectable inconsistencies that can reveal a deepfake. However, as AI technology advances, these inconsistencies may become even harder to spot, making it crucial to rely on other methods of verification.
Protecting Yourself from Weight Loss Scams
Here are some additional tips to protect yourself from weight loss scams:
- Consult a healthcare professional: Before trying any weight loss product or program, consult with a doctor or registered dietitian.
- Do your research: Thoroughly research any product or program before buying it. Check for scientific evidence supporting its claims.
- Be wary of testimonials: Testimonials can be misleading, as they are often paid for or fabricated.
- Read the fine print: Pay close attention to the terms and conditions of any offer, including subscription fees and return policies.
- Report scams: If you encounter a weight loss scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local consumer protection agency.
The Importance of Critical Thinking
In the age of AI-generated content and rampant online scams, critical thinking is more important than ever. Always question what you see and hear online, and don't be afraid to do your own research.
Read also: Is Kelly Clarkson Really Endorsing Keto Gummies?
Remember, there is no magic pill or gummy that will help you lose weight effortlessly. Sustainable weight loss requires a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a commitment to lifestyle changes.