Deepfake streamer controversy explained. A well-known Twitch streamer called Atrioc caught visiting a website featuring explicit deepfakes of female streamers such as Pokimane and Maya Higa. The apology video of Atrioc was released right after. A video circulated on January 30 that purported to show Atrioc watching the deepfakes. The video showed Atrioc’s open tabs, one of which was believed to be the deepfake website.
Deepfake streamer controversy: Atrioc caught watching deepfakes of other streamers
The website offers access to deepfake content of female Twitch streamers including Pokimane, Maya Higa, and QTCinderella. The deepfakes are sexually explicit in nature. Shortly after the video caused a stir, Atrioc went live on Twitch with his collaborator to address the controversy.
The Atrioc apology video came right after
An apology video is released after Atrioc caught watching deepfakes. “This is so embarrassing,” he said. He also stated that he was very interested in AI and deepfake technology, including AI art.
“But I was on a regular website, and there was an ad on every video… and then I click it, and then I’m in this rabbit hole. I got morbidly curious and I clicked something. It’s gross and I’m sorry. It’s so embarrassing,” he added.
Atrioc stated that it was not a repeated behavior and that he only viewed it once. He said he could provide proof by showing the receipt of his access purchase on the same day the video was recorded.
He declared, “There is no excuse for it. I’m not defending it in any way, I think this whole category of stuff is wrong.”
Fans promptly expressed their anger over the original video, pointing out that it was even more offensive since he knows some of the female streamers and their partners. After the apology, some have become more understanding and backed his assertion that he has always aimed to create a safe environment for women on his stream.
“This feels like one of the more sincere apologies I’ve seen. Doesn’t excuse anything though, and morbid curiosity isn’t a good reason,” one viewer stated.
QTCinderella has reacted to the situation and urged people to stop promoting the website. “Being seen “naked” against your will should NOT BE A PART OF THIS JOB.”
I want to scream.
Stop.
Everybody fucking stop. Stop spreading it. Stop advertising it. Stop.
Being seen “naked” against your will should NOT BE A PART OF THIS JOB.Thank you to all the male internet “journalists” reporting on this issue. Fucking losers @HUN2R
— QTCinderella (@qtcinderella) January 30, 2023
Sweet Anita expressed disappointment and anger over her name being linked to the event.
“Don’t know whether to cry, break stuff or laugh at this point,” she said.
This story was how I found out that I'm on this website. I literally choose to pass up millions by not going into sex work and some random cheeto encrusted porn addict solicits my body without my consent instead. Don't know whether to cry, break stuff or laugh at this point. https://t.co/voNoxRyVBd
— Sweet Anita (@sweetanita) January 30, 2023
Pokimane and Maya Higa have not yet given a response to the issue.
Are deepfakes illegal?
The legality of deepfakes varies by country and jurisdiction, and is often a complex issue. In some cases, deepfakes may be considered a form of false or misleading speech and be subject to laws regarding fraud or defamation. However, there is also a growing consensus that creating and distributing deepfakes without consent could be illegal under laws related to privacy and image rights. It is important to note that the legal status of deepfakes is still developing and may change as new laws are created to address these issues.
Regardless of the legality of these content, it is unethical to create and distribute them without consent, as it can harm the reputation and privacy of individuals depicted in the fake content. It is advisable to avoid engaging in this behavior to respect the dignity and autonomy of others. These videos can also be used to spread misinformation, propaganda, and influence political decisions, making them a potential threat to democracy and free speech. Don’t forget to check out this AI tool that can detect deepfake images!
