YouTube officially launched its likeness detection technology for creators in the YouTube Partner Program. The tool, which follows a pilot phase, helps creators identify AI-generated content that uses their face or voice without consent and request its removal.
The technology is intended to shield creators from the misuse of their identities in AI-generated videos, which can be used for spreading misinformation, creating false endorsements, or causing reputational harm. The launch follows incidents such as an AI-generated clone of YouTuber Jeff Geerling’s voice being used by a company to promote products without his consent.
Creators can access the tool through a “Likeness” tab in YouTube Studio. The setup process requires users to agree to data processing and then verify their identity. This verification is completed by scanning a QR code, which directs them to a page where they must upload a photo ID and a short selfie video.
After successful verification, creators can view a dashboard of detected videos that feature their likeness. From there, they can submit removal requests under YouTube’s privacy policies, file a copyright complaint, or archive the videos for record-keeping. This release marks the first phase of the tool’s rollout, and YouTube plans to expand access to additional creators over time.
