Video: Couple duped by AI video, embarks on 300-kilometer journey to nowhere, sparks online buzz

Dubai: An elderly Malaysian couple embarked on a 300-kilometre journey from Kuala Lumpur to Gerik after being completely deceived by an AI-generated video. The video, which presented itself as a legitimate news report, promoted a non-existent cable car attraction called the "Kuak Skyride" in Kuak Hulu, Gerik, and has gone viral on the internet.

The nearly three-minute-long video, widely shared and originally appearing on TikTok, showcased what seemed to be a genuine news story. It featured a 'local TV anchor' from a fictional network called 'TV Rakyat' exploring the supposed destination. The fabricated footage included the anchor interacting with 'tourists,' showcasing a 'cable car ride,' and even providing mock maps and navigational details, all designed to make the attraction appear incredibly convincing and real.

Believing they had found a new and exciting vacation spot, the couple traveled over 300 kilometers, eagerly anticipating their 'dream vacation.' Their confusion began to surface when they checked into a hotel in Gerik. They approached a hotel worker, excitedly asking about directions to the 'Kuak Hulu cable car.' It was then that they were delivered the disheartening news: no such cable car attraction existed in the area. The worker clarified that the video was an elaborate AI-generated hoax.

In their frustration and disbelief, they expressed their intention to sue the 'journalist' featured in the video. This reaction tragically highlighted their lack of awareness that the entire segment, including the reporter and all the featured elements, was a complete fabrication created by artificial intelligence.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing capabilities of AI in creating hyper-realistic yet entirely false content. Authorities have since confirmed that the 'Kuak Skyride' video is fake and that there is no cable car project in Kuak Hulu. They have issued urgent warnings to the public, advising caution and emphasising the critical need to verify information from reliable sources before believing or sharing content found online, especially videos that might appear to be news reports.