Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has warned the public about fake AI-generated images circulating online, stating that such false photos could deceive people and target those unable to defend themselves.
Meloni made this statement after discovering several fake photos of herself created with artificial intelligence by political opponents. One image appeared to show her sitting on a bed wearing underwear, accompanied by an outraged comment calling it shameful and unworthy of an Italian prime minister.
“I must admit that whoever created them, at least in the attached case, has also improved me quite a bit,” Meloni said, adding that the incident highlighted how “anything at all” is now being used to attack people and spread falsehoods. She emphasized that deepfakes are dangerous because they can deceive, manipulate, and strike anyone.
Meloni urged individuals to verify online content’s authenticity before accepting or sharing it. She stated, “One rule should always apply: verify before believing, and think before sharing.”