Katalin Karikó's statement regarding the recent misuse of her name and photo
Katalin Karikó, research professor and former student at the University of Szeged, sent a statement to SZTE about the recent misuse of her name and picture, which the university forwarded to the local media outlets, including Szegedify. We publish the professor's statement unchanged, in English.
My name and photo have been misused on the internet again. In the past, anti-fungal and anti-hypertensive drugs, and most recently, a preparation related to the home treatment of varicose veins and blood flow disorders, were advertised on the best-known online community forum in a fake interview referring to me, abusing my name and picture. Recently, my friends and acquaintances drew my attention to this latest violation of the law concerning me, the text and photo montage suitable for deceiving consumers.
Based on the above, I must reiterate: I did not and will not take part in this latest advertisement or promotion, I did not authorize the use of my name or my picture, I did not give interviews, give advice, make a statement, or hold a press conference in this regard. I emphasize: that in the mock interview, my name and picture were and are being misused, and words, sentences, assertions, and declarations are being attributed to me that I never said or asserted.
I believe that such behavior is a violation of my civil and personal rights, as well as an unauthorized and abusive handling of my personal data, as well as an unfair deception of consumers. All of this may also fall under the scope of criminal law. That is why I trust that the competent authorities, offices, and bodies will take immediate action and take the necessary steps!
I would like to make you aware that I have not given my name and I will not give it in the future to the advertisement of any product or preparation that has medicinal effects. Don't believe the ads that appear with reference to me!
I ask everyone to under no circumstances identify the sentences and statements attributed to me in the advertisements published and appearing on the Internet and social forums, and not to associate the advertised product with me! Inquire about developments and preparations based on my research work and patents from reliable sources, such as doctors and pharmacists!
Philadelphia, August 29, 2023
Prof. Dr. Katalin Karikó
Featured image only for illustration
