Science

Pandemic Grifters Are Here to Stay

TRUST NO ONE

A TikTok star scammed his way onto a COVID research team backed by the UN. He’s not alone, and the grifts will only sow more distrust in experts.

Maddie Bender
Maddie Bender
122022-bender-scamtok-hero_dltmk7
Illustration composite by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Getty
Maddie Bender

Maddie Bender

MaddieOBender

Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here.

Trending Now
PoliticsElon Musk Dramatically Puts MAGA Split With RFK Jr. on Display
David Gardner
WorldFallen Syrian Dictator’s Wife Said to Be Fighting for Life
Hugh Dougherty
PoliticsTrump’s DOGE Guy Sparks MAGA Civil War With Slam on American Culture
Josh Fiallo
PoliticsChuck Schumer Reveals Stealth Dem Plan to Block MAGA Revolution
David Gardner
RoyalistRoyals’ Walk to Christmas Service Reveals Deep Family Dysfunction
Tom Sykes