Efforts to tackle the misuse of artificial intelligence online are expanding as YouTube has widened access to its Likeness Detection tool. The feature, introduced in October 2025, helps identify and remove videos that imitate a person’s face or voice without consent.
The tool was originally rolled out to creators on the platform. It monitors videos that mimic a user’s likeness and helps them report such content. The initiative is part of the platform’s broader effort to reduce harmful uses of AI-generated media.
Now, the company has announced that the feature will also be made available to journalists, government officials, and political leaders. These groups often have public influence, and deepfake videos involving them could be used to spread misinformation or create unrest.
However, access will not be immediate for everyone in these professions. The Likeness Detection tool is still in a pilot phase, so only a limited group will initially be able to use it.
“We’re starting with this cohort to ensure the tool meets their unique needs, with plans to significantly expand access over the coming months,” YouTube said.
Eligible users must complete a detailed verification process before enrolling in the system. This process requires them to submit a photo ID along with a video recording of their face. The information is used to confirm their identity and establish a reference for detecting misuse of their likeness.
Once the verification materials are submitted, the application undergoes human review. After the process is completed, the user receives an email from YouTube confirming that their setup has been approved.
According to the platform, the data collected during enrolment will only be used for identity verification purposes. It will not be used to train generative AI models developed by Google.
The company also stated that the data will be stored in YouTube’s internal database for up to 3 years from the user’s last sign-in. The information will be handled according to Google’s privacy policies.
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