YouTube intensifies the fight against fake videos generated with artificial intelligence

The ability to distinguish authentic content from AI-generated material is becoming increasingly challenging, especially when it comes to deepfakes that simulate reality. YouTube has announced a comprehensive strategy to address this issue, aiming to maintain user trust and platform credibility in an environment where the proliferation of artificial content poses a growing risk.

Neal Mohan, CEO of YouTube, shared in a recent statement that the company is actively developing new systems designed to detect and reduce the spread of low-quality artificial content, commonly known as “AI slop” or AI garbage. The platform’s strategy includes explicit labeling mechanisms for AI-generated videos, as well as requiring creators to declare if they have used AI tools to alter or produce content.

The fight against deepfakes and low-quality videos

YouTube has strengthened its systems to identify and remove false and harmful content that violates its community guidelines. These systems operate alongside existing anti-spam and anti-clickbait mechanisms, forming a multi-layered protection network against misinformation.

The platform’s moderation efforts focus not only on removing problematic content but also on reducing its visibility before it spreads widely. This preventive approach aims to limit the impact of fraudulent or low-quality videos that could affect the user experience.

Artificial intelligence as a creative ally, not a substitute

Despite the restrictive stance toward malicious artificial content, YouTube recognizes the transformative potential of AI as a legitimate creative tool. Mohan emphasized that the platform uses artificial intelligence to enhance creators’ creativity, not to replace it.

As of December last year, over one million channels used AI-based technologies available on YouTube daily to develop new content. Applications range from producing Shorts—direct competitors to short videos on TikTok and Instagram—to image generation, interactive game design, and musical experimentation.

The creative ecosystem drives global economies

Content creators are considered the vital core of YouTube, and the platform continues to innovate monetization models that allow them to benefit from their work. Over the past four years, YouTube has transferred more than $100 billion directly to creators, artists, and media companies, fueling local economies and supporting thousands of careers.

Specifically in 2024, YouTube’s ecosystem contributed $55 billion to the US Gross Domestic Product, generating over 490,000 full-time jobs. These figures demonstrate the substantial economic impact of the platform as a driver of employment opportunities and commercial development.

Mohan noted that it is time for governments around the world to recognize the economic importance of creators and grant them tax and regulatory benefits comparable to those of traditional media giants.

Future outlook: protecting minors and global expansion

YouTube has set two key priorities for 2026: positioning the platform as the safest destination for children and teenagers, and continuing to expand monetization tools available to creators. This year, the company plans to simplify the process for parents and guardians to create supervised accounts for their underage children.

Additionally, YouTube will strengthen its presence at global events, having secured exclusive rights to broadcast the Oscars starting in 2029, establishing itself as a primary platform for content of worldwide relevance.

YouTube’s comprehensive strategy demonstrates a complex balance: containing misleading videos while fostering genuine creativity, protecting vulnerable users while expanding the ecosystem of opportunities for creators, and maintaining platform credibility in the age of artificial intelligence.