YouTube Shuts Down AI-Generated Fake Movie Trailer Channels

YouTube has shut down channels using AI to create fake movie trailers, following a Deadline investigation into the proliferation of such content. Earlier this year, YouTube suspended ads on channels Screen Culture and KH Studio for misleading videos, but these channels returned to monetization after adding disclaimers like 'fan trailer' and 'parody.' However, they reverted to their previous practices, leading YouTube to terminate them for violating spam and misleading-metadata policies.

According to the report, Screen Culture spliced together official footage with AI-generated images, misleading viewers. Founder Nikhil P. Chaudhari admitted that his team exploited YouTube's algorithm by being early with fake trailers and continuously iterating on their videos.

Interestingly, the investigation revealed that some Hollywood studios, including Warner Bros Discovery and Sony, asked YouTube to ensure that ad revenue from these AI-generated videos benefited them, rather than protecting copyright.

One YouTuber expressed satisfaction, stating, 'The monster was defeated' following the enforcement action.