The Health Minister has slammed an AI-Driven Fake News Campaign. Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has issued a stern warning against a growing wave of misinformation and disinformation targeting COVID-19 vaccines in South Africa. He described the campaign as “dangerous and malicious.”

Health Minister Slams AI-Driven Fake News Campaign

The Minister added that the campaign is driven by individuals with selfish business interests. He says they are pushing harmful, fake heart remedies under the guise of exposing vaccine risks. According to the Department of Health, these false claims are being aggressively spread using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to impersonate respected figures.

Fake News Campaign Targeting COVID-19 Vaccines

The latest victim is internationally renowned scientist Professor Salim Abdool Karim. He’s falsely portrayed in AI-generated videos warning of deadly side effects of COVID-19 vaccines. Both Professor Karim and his organisation, the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), have strongly discredited the videos.

Minister Motsoaledi warns public against dangerous misinformation

CAPRISA has stamped these videos as “FAKE NEWS,” a move supported by the Health Department across its social media platforms. He labelled the campaign as an immoral attempt at profiteering. Karim also condemned those behind it, describing them as “forces of darkness.”

“These charlatans are selling fake products through mail order under the lie that they can cleanse blood vessels and improve heart function” said Minister Motsoaledi.

He said, that instead, these charlatans selling fake products, are making people sicker. The Minister reiterated the importance of only using vaccines approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).

Be aware of fake remedies

At the same time, he urged citizens to continue trusting in science-based health interventions. Motsoaledi has also assured the public that the Department will leave no stone unturned in the battle against fake health information.

“We must close ranks and isolate these bad actors. to protect the health of our people,” he concluded.