Two users detained for AI-generated fake Xiaomi crash videos
Two Chinese internet users were detained or fined by police after using AI to generate deepfake videos of crashes involving Xiaomi automobiles, causing reputational damage to the company. Xiaomi reported the conduct to authorities and stated it would pursue legal action against AI-based misinformation.
What happened
Two online users on short video platforms used AI technology to generate fake crash videos that disparaged Xiaomi's automobile products and executives. One user named '旧**口' (Jiù K**u) created and repeatedly distributed false crash videos over an extended period; another user '花**车' (Huā **Chē) also created AI-generated fake crash videos on the platform.
Reported impact
The fake videos damaged the reputation and business goodwill of Xiaomi's automobile product line and insulted the company's executives.
Index analysis
Police investigated and determined the users engaged in illegal activity. One user was detained for seven days and required to delete all infringing links; the other was issued an administrative fine and also required to delete all infringing content. Xiaomi stated it used legal methods to combat the use of AI technology to fabricate and spread false videos that harm the company's reputation.
Governance controls
Xiaomi's public relations chief Xu Jie-yun stated that 'AI is good technology, but should not be used for spreading rumors,' warning that those who misuse AI to create rumors will face legal consequences. Xiaomi stated it will continue using legal means to combat such conduct.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.