South Indian actress Nivetha Thomas has issued a powerful and unequivocal condemnation against the alarming rise of AI-generated images that fraudulently misuse her identity and likeness. The 'Romans' star took to social media platform X to raise awareness about a specific manipulated image, created from a recent personal photograph, that is being circulated online without her consent.
A Serious Violation, Not Harmless Fun
In a detailed post, Nivetha Thomas clarified that this issue is far from being trivial or harmless entertainment. She described the act as a serious violation of personal rights and an invasion that she finds deeply disturbing. The actress explicitly stated that the creation and distribution of such synthetic media cross all ethical and legal boundaries, making it an unacceptable and unlawful practice that can no longer be ignored.
"It has come to my attention that AI-generated images misusing my identity and a recent photograph I shared on my social media are being circulated online," Nivetha wrote. She powerfully added, "The creation and circulation of such content without consent is deeply disturbing, unacceptable, and unlawful."
Clear Warning of Legal Escalation
Nivetha Thomas framed the misuse as digital impersonation and a grave invasion of privacy. She directed a stern warning towards the individuals and anonymous accounts responsible for generating and spreading the fake content, demanding an immediate cessation of these activities and the removal of all related material.
She made it abundantly clear that her response would not be limited to a social media post. Legal action would be pursued if the misuse continues. "Any continued circulation will be treated as deliberate misuse of my identity and escalated legally," she asserted, putting potential offenders on clear notice.
Public Appeal for Responsible Behaviour
Beyond addressing the creators, Nivetha Thomas made a heartfelt appeal to the general public and her fans. She urged social media users to act responsibly by recognising the profound harm caused by engaging with such malicious content.
Her message was direct: "I urge others to recognise the harm in enabling this behaviour. Do not reshare, engage with, or legitimise such material in any form." She emphasized that sharing such content, even out of curiosity, indirectly supports the violation and amplifies the damage caused to the individual whose identity is being stolen.
Echoing Concerns: Sreeleela's Earlier Statement
Nivetha Thomas is not the only actress speaking out against this technological menace. Earlier, popular actress Sreeleela had also voiced her concerns about the growing misuse of AI to create fake imagery. The 'Guntur Kaaram' star had asked people not to support what she termed "AI-generated nonsense."
Sreeleela highlighted the paradox of technology, noting, "Advancements in technology are meant to simplify life, not complicate it." She described the issue as "deeply disturbing and devastating," stating she was speaking for herself and many others in the industry. She called for people to stand by artists with grace and dignity and indicated that the authorities would be involved to take the matter forward.
The strong statements from both Nivetha Thomas and Sreeleela underscore a critical and growing challenge in the digital age, where AI tools are increasingly weaponised to harass and violate individuals, especially public figures. Their stance marks a significant move towards holding perpetrators accountable and fostering a more responsible digital ecosystem.
