"Isn't This a Crime?" U.S. Influencer Faces Backlash for Using AI to Superimpose Her Face on Others' Photos

Unauthorized Use of US Open Photo in New York
Victim Says "Tattoo on Wrist Is Identical"
Evidence of Manipulated Location Also Emerges
Post Deleted Amid Growing Controversy, Voltaire Remains Silent

An influencer is facing fierce criticism for posting images that used artificial intelligence (AI) technology to merge their own face onto another person's body photo. This incident is fueling controversy, as it highlights both the ethical issues surrounding AI technology and the potential for digital crimes.

On April 5 (local time), the New York Post reported that Lauren Blake Voltaire, an influencer with approximately 1.6 million followers, has come under fire for using a Black model's photo without permission and editing it to appear as her own before posting it on social media.

A famous influencer is facing fierce criticism for posting images where they used artificial intelligence (AI) to merge their own face onto other people's body photos. On the left is Lauren Blake Voltaire, and on the right is the victim, content creator Tatiana Elizabeth. SNS

The victim, content creator Tatiana Elizabeth, revealed through her social networking service (SNS) account that the post was a meticulously edited version of her own photo. Elizabeth also disclosed the original image, which had been taken during the 2024 US Open tennis tournament in September. In the original, she is seen wearing a tennis outfit with a white and green color combination, striking the exact same pose, and even the tattoo on her right wrist matches.

Elizabeth pointed out, "Only the face was overlaid onto my body using AI technology." She also revealed that while the actual photo was taken at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, Voltaire had set the location tag to Miami, seemingly attempting to make it appear as though she had attended a different event. As the controversy spread, Voltaire deleted the post, but as of now, she has not provided any explanation or apology. In response, Elizabeth stressed, "My goal is not to criticize, but at the very least, a basic display of courtesy and a responsible apology are necessary."

This incident also clearly demonstrates how AI technology can be misused to exploit another person's body without consent. Recently, there has been a growing trend online of swapping faces in photos or videos of ordinary people, with a rising number of cases where these methods are used to operate fake accounts or generate profits.

The New York Post noted that this case starkly illustrates the negative side effects of AI technology being used to exploit others' bodies without authorization. The New York Post specifically warned that methods for swapping faces in photos or videos of ordinary people are now easily shared online, and such actions can escalate beyond simple copyright infringement to become serious digital crimes, such as operating fake accounts.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.