YouTube has introduced a new artificial intelligence (AI) likeness detection tool designed to protect creators from deepfakes that misuse their image or voice. The feature, announced on YouTube’s Creator Insider channel, enables creators to detect videos that may have been synthetically generated to imitate them. Initially, the tool will be available to members of the YouTube Partner Programme, with plans to expand access gradually. Once onboarded, creators can find the feature in the Content ID menu where copyright issues are typically tracked and review videos flagged by YouTube as AI-generated deepfakes through a dedicated dashboard.
Creator Verification and Deepfake Reporting Process on YouTube
To gain access, eligible creators must complete a detailed verification process to ensure authenticity and prevent misuse by imposters. The onboarding requires users to consent to data processing, submit a government-approved ID card, and upload a video selfie. This data is securely stored on Google’s servers. After successful verification, creators can view videos that YouTube’s system identifies as potentially AI-altered, with the platform categorising these clips by priority to highlight the most concerning cases.
Since the feature is still in its early stages, YouTube acknowledges that it may sometimes display a creator’s own content alongside suspected deepfakes. The company began piloting this tool in December 2024 and continues refining it to improve accuracy. Once flagged videos appear, creators can choose to request removal or ask that the video be archived for record purposes. YouTube will then review the submitted complaints and determine the appropriate action.
YouTube Empowers Creators with Control Over AI
Creators also retain full control over their participation. Through the “manage tool” option in the dashboard, they can deactivate access to the likeness detection tool at any time. If they choose to opt out, YouTube will cease scanning their likeness for deepfakes within 24 hours. This initiative underscores YouTube’s commitment to safeguarding creator authenticity and combating AI-driven impersonation.
Summary:
YouTube has launched an AI likeness detection tool to protect creators from deepfakes misusing their image or voice. Available initially to Partner Programme members, it verifies creators through ID and video selfie submission, flags AI-generated content, allows removal requests, and offers full control to enable or disable participation anytime.
