Social media is a huge part of kids’ lives. They follow influencers, watch viral videos, and engage with content that shapes their thoughts and behaviors. But what if some of these influencers aren’t real?
With artificial intelligence (AI) advancing rapidly, we’re seeing the rise of AI-generated influencers and deepfake content—digital creations that look real but aren’t. These AI-driven figures are gaining millions of followers, influencing trends, and, in some cases, spreading harmful content.
In this article, we’ll break down the risks of AI-generated content, how it affects children, and what you can do to guide your kids through this evolving digital landscape.
The Power of Virtual Influencers
AI-generated influencers are not just an internet trend—they’re shaping the way kids see the world. These digital personas are lifelike but completely computer-generated. They post on social media, partner with big brands, and interact with audiences just like real people.
A well-known example is Miquela Sousa (@lilmiquela), an AI influencer with millions of followers and partnerships with brands like Prada and Calvin Klein. Many kids don’t realize she isn’t real.
While some virtual influencers promote positive messages, others can spread misleading or harmful content. Young viewers may be influenced by unrealistic beauty standards, false information, or even toxic ideologies without realizing it.
The Dark Side of AI: How Algorithms Target Kids
AI-driven algorithms are designed to maximize engagement. The more a child interacts with content, the more similar material the platform will recommend. Unfortunately, this can lead to exposure to harmful content, including misinformation, extremism, and toxic online communities.
Research has shown that:
A significant percentage of children encounter harmful content within moments of going online.
Studies on online behavior indicate that boys aged 11-14 are particularly susceptible to engaging with influencers associated with toxic digital spaces.
Algorithm-driven content loops can reinforce misogyny, violence, and extreme ideologies, gradually normalizing harmful viewpoints.
Reports from organizations studying digital safety, such as the Center for Countering Digital Hate and academic research on online radicalization, highlight the risks of AI-driven content recommendations. Addressing these issues requires ongoing efforts in parental guidance, platform accountability, and digital literacy education.
Deepfake Dangers: When AI Creates Fake but Convincing Content
Deepfakes are AI-generated videos and images that look incredibly real. In early 2024, explicit deepfake images of Taylor Swift spread across social media, reaching millions of users—many of them kids—before platforms could remove them.
This highlights a major issue: social media platforms struggle to regulate AI-generated content. One harmful image can go viral in seconds, influencing young users before they even realize it’s fake.
As AI technology improves, deepfakes will only become more realistic and harder to detect. Parents need to help their children recognize and question what they see online.
Why Kids Believe AI-Generated Content
Children and teens are growing up in a digital world where AI-generated content is becoming indistinguishable from reality. Here’s why they might trust it without question:
Lifelike Appearance – AI influencers look and act real, making it hard for kids to tell the difference.
Influencer Culture – Kids trust influencers, so they may not question if one is AI-generated.
Algorithms Push AI Content – Social media platforms promote engaging content, even if it’s AI-created.
How to Protect Your Child from AI-Generated Harmful Content
As AI-generated content becomes more common, parents must take steps to safeguard their children’s online experiences. Here’s what you can do:
1. Teach Kids to “Train the Algorithm”
Social media feeds can be adjusted to show less harmful content by:
Marking harmful posts as “Not Interested.”
Unfollowing accounts that share negative content.
Avoiding engaging with toxic material—no likes, shares, or comments.
2. Set Up Parental Controls
Most platforms offer parental controls to filter out explicit or harmful content. Use resources like Digital Parenting Pro to set up protections across apps like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
3. Have Open Conversations
Talk to your child regularly about what they see online. Encourage them to:
Question whether an influencer or video is AI-generated.
Think critically about whether content is harmful or misleading.
Share concerns with you if they feel uncomfortable with what they see.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Connected
AI-generated influencers and deepfake content are becoming part of everyday life. While technology offers exciting possibilities, it also comes with risks—especially for kids. By staying informed, having open discussions, and setting digital boundaries, parents can help their children enjoy the benefits of technology while avoiding its dangers.
