(CHICAGO) — The Better Business Bureau is alerting consumers about a rapidly spreading online health scam that falsely claims a secret honey-based remedy endorsed by Bill Gates can reverse memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Known as the “Bill Gates Brain Honey” or “Ancient Honey Ritual” scam, the scheme uses artificial intelligence (AI) – generated videos and voice cloning technology to make it appear that well-known public figures – including Bill Gates, CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta, journalist Anderson Cooper, and actor Bruce Willis – are promoting miracle cures for cognitive decline.
“These ads are designed to look convincing and exploit the fears of individuals and families affected by memory-related illnesses,” said Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “Scammers are using powerful AI tools to create realistic videos that falsely suggest trusted public figures are endorsing products that have no proven medical benefit.”
How the Scam Works
Consumers encounter advertisements on social media platforms, websites, and video-sharing services that appear to be news reports, documentaries, or exclusive interviews. The videos often claim that Bill Gates and his research team discovered an ancient honey-based formula capable of reversing brain aging, restoring memory, and curing Alzheimer’s disease.
The presentations are lengthy, professionally produced, and filled with scientific-sounding language intended to create credibility.
The scam succeeds in part because it twists a real story. Bill Gates has publicly supported Alzheimer’s research after his father passed away from the disease and has donated significant resources to legitimate research efforts. However, Gates has never endorsed, promoted, or sold any commercial “brain honey” product or memory supplement.
After viewers watch the promotional videos, they are directed to purchase supplements sold under changing brand names such as CogniHoney, Mind Boost, or generic “brain health” formulations. The products are frequently marketed as limited-time offers or breakthrough discoveries unavailable through traditional medical channels.
Hidden Costs and Subscription Traps
According to consumer complaints and reports submitted to BBB Scam Tracker, some victims discover that purchasing the products triggers unauthorized recurring charges and automatic shipments.
Consumers have reported:
• Unexpected monthly charges appear on credit card statements.
• Difficulty canceling subscriptions.
• Unresponsive customer service departments.
• Refund requests are being denied or ignored.
• Continued shipments despite cancellation attempts.
“These scams often begin with a seemingly modest purchase but can quickly become expensive when recurring charges start appearing,” notes Bernas. “Consumers should carefully review all terms and conditions before entering payment information online.”
BBB cautions that there is currently no scientific evidence supporting claims that honey-based supplements can cure, reverse, or prevent Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or significant memory loss.
Medical experts stress that consumers should be skeptical of any product promising dramatic health improvements, especially when claims involve serious conditions for which no cure currently exists.
The use of celebrity endorsements should also be viewed cautiously. Advances in artificial intelligence now allow scammers to create highly realistic videos and audio recordings that appear authentic even when they are completely fabricated.
Warning Signs of an AI Deepfake Scam
Consumers should watch for these red flags:
• Celebrity endorsements that seem surprising or out of character.
• Claims of “secret cures” hidden from the medical community.
• Guarantees to reverse Alzheimer’s, dementia, or memory loss.
• High-pressure sales tactics and countdown timers.
• Websites lacking verifiable company information.
• Videos with unnatural facial movements, lip-syncing errors, or inconsistent lighting.
• Requests for immediate payment or credit card information.
How to Protect Yourself
BBB recommends the following precautions:
Verify information through trusted sources. Consult reputable medical organizations, healthcare providers, and recognized research institutions before purchasing health products.
Be cautious of celebrity endorsements online. Scammers increasingly use AI-generated content to impersonate public figures without their knowledge or consent.
Consult your physician. Speak with a licensed healthcare professional before taking supplements marketed for memory enhancement or cognitive health.
Research the company. Check BBB.org, read independent reviews, and search for complaints before making a purchase.
Monitor your financial statements. Review credit card and bank account activity regularly for unauthorized recurring charges.
Report suspicious activity. Consumers who encounter these scams are encouraged to report them to BBB Scam Tracker and to relevant consumer protection agencies.
Bottom Line
If an online advertisement claims that a celebrity-endorsed honey recipe can cure dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or memory loss, consumers should proceed with extreme caution. While the videos may appear convincing, they are often sophisticated AI-generated deceptions designed to separate consumers from their money.
For more information about scams and consumer protection, visit BBB.org
