YouTube is introducing an AI-powered detection system to help creators identify and remove Deepfake videos that mimic their faces and likeness.
This new feature primarily aims to safeguard creator identities and privacy. It also seeks to prevent viewers from being misled by highly realistic AI-generated content.
Distinguishing between real and Deepfake videos has become increasingly difficult. Such misleading content could potentially harm a real creator’s reputation.
The ‘AI likeness detection’ tool will be accessible within YouTube Studio under a new ‘Likeness’ or ‘Content Detection’ tab. Creators must first complete identity verification, involving an ID card and a selfie video.
Upon detecting an AI-generated video that uses their likeness, creators will receive an immediate notification. YouTube Studio will provide detailed information about suspicious videos, including the video title, channel name, viewership, and content.
Creators will then have the option to submit a “Removal Request” directly through the platform. The tool supports requests for both AI-faked likenesses and traditional copyright infringements.
YouTube previously established rules against monetizing content generated by artificial intelligence. This new initiative specifically targets the misuse of personal likeness.
The company plans a phased rollout of the detection feature. It will initially be available to select creators in the YouTube Partner Program over the next two to three months. YouTube aims for full availability to all monetizing creators by January 2026.