You might’ve seen the videos pop up on social media—clips of a well-spoken Kiwi doctor claiming to have found a “5-second cure” for diabetes or touting miracle pills not sold in pharmacies.

But here’s the truth: they’re all fake.

Professor Rinki Murphy, a respected diabetes expert with Health NZ and the University of Auckland, has been shocked to find herself the face of a scam.

Her name and image are being used in deepfake videos circulating online, luring people to stop their medications and buy fake treatments.

“People have told me they stopped their medication and sent money—because they thought I recommended it,” she says.

“It’s distressing. These scams put lives at risk.”

The videos started cropping up around Anzac weekend and now appear in many versions.

They use AI to mimic Professor Murphy’s appearance and voice, making them convincing enough to fool vulnerable patients.

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast—especially those managing type 2 diabetes—should be extra cautious.

With chronic conditions so common in our community, it’s heartbreaking to think of anyone falling for this kind of deception.

Professor Murphy’s advice is simple:

• Talk to your GP or nurse before buying any health product online.
• Never stop medication unless you’ve checked with your health care team.
• Report scam videos and don’t click on the links.
• Warn friends or whānau who might be affected.
• If you’ve been tricked or lost money, let NZ Police know.

This is a good reminder to stay alert online—and to keep looking out for one another, especially when it comes to our health.

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