AI-generated deepfake images of Shakira used without consent
Shakira publicly reported that AI-generated deepfake images of her were circulating online without her consent, used to falsely promote brands and spread misinformation. She confirmed her legal team was working to remove the manipulated content, and noted this was a recurring problem after a similar incident in June 2026 involving electoral campaign imagery.
What happened
In July 2026, AI-generated images of Shakira circulated online showing her in situations that did not occur and with people she had not met. Many of the manipulated images were used to promote brands with which she had never signed advertising agreements or to lend credibility to completely fabricated information.
In June 2026, weeks before the July incident, Shakira had to publicly deny similar montages linking her to Colombian electoral campaigns. The images showed her supporting presidential candidates Iván Cepeda and Aida Quilcué of the Pacto Histórico coalition, accompanied by messages using her figure to request votes.
Reported impact
Shakira stated that the AI-generated images harmed her reputation by misrepresenting her positions and associations. She said many images were used for commercial purposes without her consent or to spread false rumors about her.
Index analysis
Shakira acknowledged that deepfake creation represents a growing challenge despite being part of technological advancement. She described the phenomenon as part of coexisting with the technological revolution to which everyone is subject.
Governance controls
Shakira stated that her legal and communications team was actively working to locate and remove the manipulated content from the internet.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.