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Synthetic graphics claiming to show Venezuela's president in custody following his apprehension by the United States have gained countless of views online.

How AI Images of the President Emerged Soon After

The first inauthentic AI image seemingly displaying him led off a aircraft circulated shortly after. The graphic was unpublished by any verified American sources; rather, it was uploaded on the platform X by an profile purporting to be an “AI video art enthusiast”.

Our analysis used an AI-watermark detector, determining the image was produced or modified with Google AI.

Additional AI-generated visuals started circulating in the subsequent hours, purporting to present additional perspectives of the leader in custody. Visible identifying marks on these images indicate they were posted by an Instagram account named ultravfx.

The detection tool indicates these additional images were also produced using AI technology.

Authentic Image Released but Fakes Continued

The former US president released the initial authentic image of Nicolás Maduro in handcuffs aboard the US Navy ship on that morning. However, despite this real photo was released, synthetic pictures continued to spread but were updated to incorporate the grey athletic wear worn by Maduro.

Online investigation show these updated fakes were first posted on the video platform by a digital art profile. Again, the AI-watermark detector confirms these further images were produced with AI tools.

Important Facts:

• AI-generated content spread rapidly following the announcement of the president's apprehension.
• The initial fabricated image appeared within hours on social media.
• Detection software like Google’s SynthID helped to identify the images as AI-generated.
• Fabrications continued to spread and evolve even after the release of authentic images.
• The source of several fakes was linked to specific online profiles focused on graphic design.