“I Had No Idea I Was Being Used in a Scam”
Japanese culinary YouTuber Kimagure Cook (real name: Kaneko) has publicly warned his fans after discovering that his face and voice were being used in AI-generated scam advertisements without his consent.
The fraudulent ads, which utilize deepfake technology, depict what appears to be Kaneko himself promoting get-rich-quick schemes and questionable investment services. These ads often include exaggerated claims such as “Make ¥1,000,000 (approx. $6,900) per month in just 30 minutes a day” or “Even beginners can earn easily.”
Experts have criticized the ads for being misleading and deceptive, warning that they are designed to exploit the trust viewers place in familiar online personalities.
Victims Report Being Misled on Social Media
Multiple social media users have reported falling victim to the scam, believing that the ads were genuine endorsements by the YouTuber.
“I trusted him, so I signed up,” one viewer wrote. “Later I realized it was a scam.” However, Kimagure Cook has made it clear that he has no involvement with these advertisements, which are entirely AI-fabricated.
Kaneko has taken to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and his YouTube community page to caution fans, urging them not to trust any ads featuring his face unless they are posted through his official channels. He also indicated that legal action is under consideration.
Surge in AI-Generated Scam Ads
This incident is part of a growing global trend of AI-generated deepfake scams that use the likenesses of public figures without permission. In Japan, cases are steadily increasing, fueled by advancements in AI and the ease with which video ads can be distributed online.
With technology becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is becoming more difficult for the average person to distinguish between genuine content and fabricated material.
Experts Urge Caution: “Verify the Source”
Cybersecurity professionals emphasize the importance of verifying the source of any online endorsement. “Always cross-check whether the person in the ad is promoting the product on their official social media or YouTube channel,” one expert advised. “If something promises unusually high returns, it’s probably too good to be true.”
What’s Being Done?
Kimagure Cook is currently working with platform operators to have the fraudulent ads removed and is considering legal action to prevent further misuse of his likeness. He also plans to continue warning his audience through his social media accounts.
As AI-based scams continue to rise, it’s more important than ever for viewers to develop a healthy skepticism and double-check the legitimacy of what they see online.
