A Wired investigation found a network of more than 400 apps and domains, apparently run by one Chinese organization, with hidden features for making sexual and violent deepfakes from uploaded photos. They were in Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
How they got through
The apps looked harmless, like language tutors, AI workout coaches, or pet photo apps. A server-side switch turned on the hidden features later, often for people who came in through ads on Facebook and Instagram. Some had been live for a year.
Apple removed 19 apps after Wired reached out. It says the apps followed the rules when reviewed, but the developers later changed the website the apps pull content from. Apple says it recently strengthened protections against that trick. Meta says it acted against more than 10,000 ad accounts.
My take
This is the weak spot in app review. Apple checks the app, but the app can change what it loads afterward. Apple just tightened its deepfake rules, and these apps went around them. If your kids install “free AI” apps, check what they actually do.
God Bless, and Needs Garlic!
