In a recent incident reported by The New York Times, Taylor Swift fans, known as “Swifties,” were scammed by a fake ad that utilized artificial intelligence (AI) to generate an endorsement using the singer’s voice and likeness. The ad falsely claimed that Swift would be giving out free Le Creuset cookware sets to her fans. The AI-created Swift appeared in ads on Facebook alongside images of the cookware brand, enticing viewers to click a button and answer a few questions before the end of the day.
However, participants who provided their personal information and paid a supposed “shipping fee” never received the promised cookware. Instead, they faced hidden monthly charges. This deceptive ad fooled many fans who may have been swayed by Swift’s previous association with the luxury cookware brand. In a 2014 Facebook post, Swift displayed her affinity for Le Creuset by showcasing several of their products in her kitchen. However, a representative for Le Creuset clarified that they have no partnership with the singer and advised customers to shop only through official channels.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident of AI-generated ads exploiting celebrities. In 2020, actor Tom Hanks warned his fans about a dental plan ad featuring an AI-generated version of himself. Similarly, Scarlett Johansson took legal action against an app that used her likeness without permission to promote their services. These cases highlight the need for greater vigilance in identifying and combatting deceptive AI-generated content.
As technology advances, it becomes increasingly critical for platforms, advertisers, and consumers to implement safeguards against AI-generated scams. By raising awareness and taking legal action when necessary, celebrities like Taylor Swift can protect their image and prevent their fans from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
The source of the article is from the blog hashtagsroom.com