Ever seen a video online that makes you double-take? A recent one supposedly showing Donald Trump touching Bill Clinton inappropriately has been making the rounds, but we’re here to tell you: it’s completely fake. This video is a prime example of how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to create misleading content.
Our team at DetectBot investigated, and the truth is far less scandalous. The viral video was expertly crafted using AI technology, manipulating an actual photograph taken at the U.S. Open on September 8, 2000. In the original photo, Trump’s arm is near Clinton, but there’s no contact as depicted in the video. The photographer, William Vasta, confirmed to PolitiFact that the video is fake, stating, “As far as I remember, nobody touched anything.” An AI expert, Manjeet Rege, also confirmed it was AI-generated, pointing out tell-tale signs like inconsistencies in faces in the background.
So, why did this deepfake suddenly appear? It gained traction following the recent release of thousands of Jeffrey Epstein’s emails and text messages. These communications, which are truly disturbing, contained some controversial references, including a message asking if “Putin has photos of Trump practicing oral sex on Bubba.” Many assumed “Bubba” referred to Bill Clinton. However, Mark Epstein, Jeffrey’s brother, clarified that the “Bubba” in the message was not Clinton and it was a private, misinterpreted joke.
This incident is a powerful reminder to be critical of what you see online. In an age of advanced AI, it’s easier than ever to create convincing fake content. Before you share, always question, and if you’re unsure, send it to DetectBot!
