TV Doctor Ted van Essen Victim of Deepfake Video on Diabetes
amsterdam, woensdag, 13 augustus 2025.
TV doctor Ted van Essen has become a victim of a deepfake video, in which his face is used to promote controversial diabetes treatments. This video has been circulating on Facebook for months without the platform taking action. The incident highlights the growing threat of deepfake technology and the need for better detection methods. Ted van Essen points out that the realistic nature of these videos is frightening and that they have damaged his reputation and personal life.
TV Doctor Ted van Essen Victim of Deepfake Video on Diabetes
TV doctor Ted van Essen has become a victim of a deepfake video, in which his face is used to promote controversial diabetes treatments. This video has been circulating on Facebook for months without the platform taking action. The incident highlights the growing threat of deepfake technology and the need for better detection methods. Ted van Essen points out that the realistic nature of these videos is frightening and that they have damaged his reputation and personal life [1][2].
Impact and Reactions
The deepfake video has had significant consequences for Ted van Essen’s reputation and career. He emphasises how easily his image can be manipulated, which is a concerning aspect of this technology [3]. Media organisations are encouraged to be extra cautious when distributing video content that may be fake, as detecting deepfakes remains a challenge [3].
AI in the Spread and Combat of Fake News
Deepfake technology is an example of how AI can be used to spread fake news. This technology makes it possible to create realistic videos and audio recordings that are difficult to distinguish from genuine content. On the other hand, AI-driven methods are also being developed to verify the authenticity of such content. These methods use machine learning and computer vision to detect signs of manipulation [GPT].
Implications for Media Literacy and Democracy
The spread of deepfakes and other forms of fake news has serious implications for media literacy and democracy. It weakens public trust in media and politicians and can lead to confusion and polarisation. Education in media literacy is therefore crucial to raise awareness among citizens about the capabilities and risks of this technology. Additionally, it is important that media organisations and governments collaborate to develop effective detection and counter-strategies [GPT].
Practical Tips for Readers to Identify Fake News
To identify fake news, readers can follow these practical tips: 1) Check the source of the news and see if it comes from a reliable and established media organisation. 2) Compare the information with other reliable sources to uncover discrepancies. 3) Look out for poorly written or sensational headlines designed to evoke emotions. 4) Look for technical signs of manipulation, such as unnatural movements or sounds in videos. 5) Consult fact-checking websites for confirmation of the authenticity of the news [GPT].