AI-Generated Videos Flood Social Media, Earning Millions of Views

In recent years, the rapid advancement of generative AI has led to a significant increase in spam accounts that post AI-generated images and videos on the Internet to earn impressions and advertising revenue. This phenomenon has been highlighted by a reporter who noted that spammers are exploiting the algorithms of platforms like Instagram and TikTok by posting a large number of AI-generated videos, effectively launching a 'brute force attack on the Internet.'

These AI-generated videos, which are often bizarre and grotesque, are recommended by algorithms and have been viewed millions of times. For example, a video showing a person transforming into a spider-like monster has garnered over 360 million views. These videos are generated by AI within seconds or minutes, and contributors post hundreds to thousands of videos per day across various social media platforms.

The mass posting of AI-generated content is likened to a 'brute force attack,' where spammers flood the platform with content to find videos that the algorithms recommend. Once a suitable video is identified, it can be used to earn advertising revenue. The intended 'viewers' of these AI-generated videos are not humans but the social media algorithms themselves. This overwhelming volume of AI-generated content is drowning out videos created by human creators, who spend more time and effort to produce content that aligns with algorithmic preferences.

YouTuber Daniel Bitton and Musa Mustafa, who sell methods to monetize on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, argue that creating high-quality videos is no longer necessary. Bitton claims that posting AI-generated videos is more profitable, as AI can do 90% of the work. Mustafa compares social media users to hungry shoppers at 2 a.m., suggesting that crude AI-generated videos are sufficient to satisfy viewers and generate revenue.

The platforms themselves benefit from AI-generated videos as they attract users and increase ad views. The CEO of a major social media company has expressed excitement about new categories of AI-generated content, indicating no intention to crack down on such videos. The company's AI tools for advertisers, such as 'Advantage+,' allow for large-scale testing of ad versions, further integrating AI into the advertising ecosystem.

The engagement with AI-generated videos, even if negative, is seen as a positive signal by algorithms, leading to more recommendations. This could result in AI-generated videos dominating social media feeds, affecting users' perception of reality. Videos tailored to specific interests, such as conspiracy theories or religious content, could be recommended to users, influencing their worldview. As social media plays an increasingly significant role in daily life, the impact of AI-generated videos on reality cannot be overlooked.