Yanis Varoufakis Warns of AI Deepfakes After Fake Videos Spread Online

Yanis Varoufakis said he first became aware of the problem after a colleague congratulated him on a YouTube talk he never gave. Watching the video, Varoufakis realised it showed a convincing AI-generated version of himself delivering geopolitical commentary he had not recorded.

Since then, hundreds of similar deepfake videos have appeared across YouTube and social media platforms, some repeating views he might plausibly hold, others attributing statements he strongly rejects. Supporters have contacted him seeking clarification, while critics have used the videos to attack his credibility.

Varoufakis said attempts to have the videos removed by major technology companies proved largely ineffective, as deleted content quickly resurfaced under new accounts. He described the experience as an example of how digital platforms enable the appropriation of personal identity.

While acknowledging the risks of misinformation, Varoufakis also raised broader questions about democracy in the age of artificial intelligence, arguing that deepfakes expose how little control individuals have over their digital likeness. He warned that without political action, AI-generated content could further undermine trust, accountability and meaningful public debate.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Swiss police have confirmed the identities of 16 additional victims killed in the deadly fire at a bar in the ski resort of Crans-Montana. Authorities said the youngest was a 14-year-old Swiss girl, with nine of those identified under the age of 18.