Tech · Full coverage

Brands Quietly Turn to AI Influencers, Sparking Backlash Over Fake Testimonials

How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.

100% center
Center 2

First reported by N12 · Jun 21, 2026

What happened

A Guardian investigation found that major brands are increasingly using AI-generated influencers and synthetic testimonials without clearly disclosing it. The report highlighted Once, Maket and Ashle, and quoted critics and industry figures warning that consumers are being misled.

  • 01Major brands are using AI influencers without clearly telling consumers.
  • 02Guardian found AI-generated testimonials in campaigns for Once, Maket and Ashle.
  • 03Some creators say brands use nondisclosure agreements to hide AI involvement.
  • 04Consumer advocates warn people can no longer trust online video content.
  • 05Regulators said current rules do not explicitly ban undisclosed AI ads.

Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.

Full coverage · 2 outlets

The same event, reported separately by each newsroom. Open a few to compare what each emphasizes — and what they leave out.

N12Center · HebrewJun 21, 2026
Brands Quietly Turn to AI Influencers, Sparking Backlash Over Fake Testimonials
MakoCenter · HebrewJun 21, 2026
Brands Quietly Use AI Influencers and Fake Testimonials, Prompting Consumer Backlash

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