Berkshire Hathaway has issued a warning about a rising wave of AI-generated deepfake videos impersonating its long-time CEO, Warren Buffett. The company disclosed on Thursday that several videos, circulating on platforms such as YouTube, feature AI-created visuals of the 95-year-old investor paired with fabricated statements he never made. Widely known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” Buffett has increasingly become a target for AI-driven impersonation due to his global influence in investing.
According to Berkshire Hathaway, while the videos may convincingly replicate Buffett’s appearance, the audio is often flat, generic, and “clearly” not his voice. One notable example, titled “Warren Buffett: The #1 Investment Tip For Everyone Over 50 (MUST WATCH),” features an impersonated voice delivering false investment advice. The company emphasized that individuals unfamiliar with Buffett may be misled, stating: “Mr. Buffett is concerned that these types of fraudulent videos are becoming a spreading virus.”
The warning highlights growing concerns about misinformation and reputational risks posed by deepfake technology and AI voice cloning. Over the past year, such tools have made it increasingly easy to produce realistic digital forgeries of public figures. In May 2025, the FBI reported cases of malicious actors using AI-generated voice calls and text messages to impersonate senior U.S. officials in attempts to gain access to personal accounts.
Buffett himself has long expressed concern about impersonation, particularly through increasingly sophisticated AI-generated content. In October 2024, shortly before the U.S. presidential election, he cautioned against fraudulent claims suggesting he endorsed political candidates or investment products. Having largely stepped back from political endorsements after supporting former President Barack Obama and Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, Buffett is preparing to retire as Berkshire Hathaway CEO at the end of the year, with Vice Chairman Greg Abel set to succeed him.
Berkshire Hathaway noted that while deepfake visuals may be convincing, careful observation of speech patterns often reveals the impersonation. The company urged the public to remain vigilant and verify statements directly from credible sources before acting on them. This alert reflects the broader challenge that AI-generated impersonation poses to public figures, investors, and audiences worldwide.
As AI technology becomes more accessible and sophisticated, the risks of fraud, misinformation, and reputational damage continue to rise. Companies and individuals are increasingly urged to develop safeguards, promote awareness, and verify content authenticity to prevent falling victim to AI-fueled deceptions. Buffett’s case serves as a high-profile reminder of these emerging threats in the digital era.