Netizen Detained for Fabricating Earthquake Images Using AI

Netizen Detained for Spreading False Earthquake Images

A netizen in Qinghai Province, China, has been administratively detained for fabricating links between a series of "buried boy images" and the recent earthquake in Xigaze, Tibet. The individual misled the public and spread false information, according to the cybersecurity department under the Chinese Ministry of Public Security (MPS).

The images, depicting a "buried boy" with captions related to the earthquake, circulated widely online after the 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Dingri County in Tibet. The images attracted significant attention, receiving tens of thousands of shares, comments, and likes.

Recognizing signs of AI generation in the images, the cybersecurity department promptly investigated and confirmed that the images were indeed created using AI tools. The original author had previously posted a short video with the same images on November 18, 2024, without linking it to the earthquake and stating it was AI-generated.

Based on China's Public Security Administration Punishments Law, the netizen faces detention of between five and ten days and a potential fine of up to 500 yuan ($71.3) for intentionally disturbing public order by spreading rumors.

The MPS cybersecurity department urges the public to carefully verify the authenticity of images by observing details, cross-checking from multiple sources, and using AI detection tools. Before confirming information as true and reliable, do not forward it to avoid unintentionally promoting the spread of rumors.