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Computer-created pictures claiming to show Venezuela's president under arrest following his capture by the American authorities have gained countless of views across the internet.

The Way AI Images of the President Appeared Soon After

The first fake AI image seemingly showing him being escorted off a plane emerged shortly after. This image was not shared any authoritative American sources; it was instead published on the platform X by an account purporting to be an “enthusiast of AI-generated art”.

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

Additional synthetic images started circulating in the subsequent period, appearing to show different views of the leader detained. Discernible identifying marks on the graphics reveal they originated from an Instagram account named ultravfx.

SynthID says the further images were similarly produced using AI technology.

Real Photo Released but Fakes Persisted

The former US president shared the genuine photograph of Nicolás Maduro restrained aboard the US Navy ship on Saturday morning. But even after the authentic image was released, synthetic images persisted online but were updated to include the grey tracksuit seen on Maduro.

Digital forensics indicate these altered fabrications were initially shared on the video platform by a digital art profile. Similarly, the AI-watermark detector confirms the new graphics were produced with AI tools.

Important Facts:

• Synthetic media gained traction following the news of Maduro's capture.
• The initial fabricated picture appeared within hours on platform X.
• Detection software like Google’s SynthID were used to confirm the images as inauthentic.
• Fake images persisted to circulate and be updated even after the publication of real images.
• The source of many fabricated images was traced to social media profiles dedicated to AI art.