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AI-generated graphics claiming to depict Venezuela's president under arrest following his apprehension by the US have amassed tens of millions of views on social media.

How AI Images of Maduro Appeared Rapidly

Initial fabricated AI image apparently showing him led off a aircraft circulated shortly after. The picture was unpublished by any verified American sources; rather, it was uploaded on the platform X by an profile describing itself as an “AI video art enthusiast”.

Verification involved the SynthID tool, confirming the image was produced or modified with AI tools.

Further synthetic visuals started circulating in the following hours, purporting to present more angles of Maduro detained. Discernible logos on these pictures indicate they were posted by an Instagram profile named ultravfx.

SynthID confirms these additional pictures were also produced using AI technology.

Authentic Image Posted but Fabrications Continued

Donald Trump posted the genuine photograph of Nicolás Maduro restrained aboard the US Navy ship on that morning. However, despite this real photo was released, AI-generated pictures persisted online but were updated to incorporate the grey tracksuit seen on Maduro.

Digital forensics indicate these updated fakes were initially shared on the video platform by a digital art profile. Once again, analysis found the new graphics were generated or edited generative artificial intelligence.

Key Points:

• Synthetic media gained traction following the news of the president's apprehension.
• The first fake picture was shared very quickly on platform X.
• Tools like AI-watermark detectors helped to confirm the pictures as synthetic.
• Fake images persisted to circulate and evolve even after the release of real photographs.
• The origin of many fabricated images was linked to social media profiles focused on AI art.