Many fans of TODAY show host Al Roker were alarmed recently when a video surfaced online showing him endorsing a blood pressure supplement. The only problem? The video was a deepfake. This latest scam, which gained traction in early 2025, highlights how artificial intelligence is being used to create convincing but entirely fabricated celebrity endorsements.
Roker himself was shocked when friends and colleagues started reaching out after seeing the video. In it, a digitally manipulated version of him claimed to have suffered multiple heart attacks and recommended a supposed cure for high blood pressure. The real Al Roker has never had hypertension or a heart attack, and he quickly took to social media to warn his fans about the scam.
The Rise of the Al Roker Blood Pressure Supplement Deepfake
The fake video spread rapidly across platforms like Facebook and Instagram, targeting viewers who trust Roker’s reputation. The deepfake was so realistic that even tech-savvy individuals and family members of celebrities were fooled. Roker’s celebrity friends reported that their parents had been duped, underscoring just how persuasive these AI-generated videos can be.
Social media companies, including Meta, acted swiftly to remove the video after being alerted by TODAY. However, the damage was already done—thousands had already viewed the clip, and many believed it to be genuine. This incident is part of a growing trend of deepfake scams, with other celebrities like Taylor Swift, Tom Hanks, and Oprah also being targeted.
Recognizing and Avoiding Deepfake Scams
As deepfake technology becomes more advanced, it’s crucial for everyone to stay alert. Here are some ways to spot and avoid scams involving fake celebrity endorsements for blood pressure supplements or other health products:
- Watch for Strange Details: Deepfake videos may have unnatural facial movements, lips that don’t quite match the speech, or odd lighting.
- Listen for Unusual Audio: The voice might sound robotic or have unnatural pauses.
- Check for Inconsistencies: Backgrounds or lighting that seem off can be a clue that the video is fake.
- Verify Through Trusted Sources: Always double-check health advice or product endorsements with reputable sources before making any decisions.
- Be Wary of Social Media Ads: If a celebrity endorsement seems out of character or too good to be true, it probably is.
Cybersecurity experts warn that deepfake scams are becoming more common, with the average person encountering several fake videos each day. These scams aren’t limited to celebrities—scammers also impersonate CEOs, family members, and even job interviewers to steal money or personal data.
Why the Al Roker Blood Pressure Supplement Scam Is So Dangerous
The danger of this scam lies in its ability to exploit trust. Fans who admire Roker and rely on his credibility are more likely to believe a video that appears to feature him. This trust is used by scammers to sell fake health products, collect personal information, or commit financial fraud.
The incident also highlights a broader issue: the ease with which AI can be used to create convincing fake content. Free online tools make it possible for almost anyone to generate deepfake videos, increasing the risk of widespread fraud. As one expert noted, “This is becoming one of the biggest problems worldwide online. I don’t think that the average consumer understands how easy it is to produce these fabricated videos.”
Protecting Yourself in the Age of Deepfakes
Given the prevalence of deepfake scams, it’s essential to stay informed and cautious. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Share information about deepfakes and how to spot them, especially with older family members who may be more vulnerable.
- Use Detection Tools: Consider using software that can help identify manipulated audio and video in real time.
- Report Suspicious Content: If you encounter a deepfake, report it to the platform and warn others in your network.
- Stay Updated: Follow trusted news sources and cybersecurity experts for the latest information on emerging scams.
Key Takeaways from the Al Roker Blood Pressure Supplement Scam
The Al Roker blood pressure supplement deepfake is a wake-up call for everyone who uses social media. While deepfake technology is impressive, it also poses serious risks to personal security and public trust. By remaining skeptical and verifying information through reliable channels, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams.
Stay vigilant and share this information with friends and family. If you see a suspicious video of Al Roker or any other public figure endorsing a blood pressure supplement or health product, verify its authenticity before believing or sharing it.