Reach criticised over fake AI-generated adverts of Alex Jones and Rachel Reeves
The doctored images of Alex Jones and Rachel Reeves appeared on the WalesOnline app, prompting backlash from users who labelled the ads ‘disturbing’ and ‘dystopian’
The publisher Reach has faced criticism for running disturbing adverts on its WalesOnline app, featuring fake AI-generated images of TV presenter Alex Jones and Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The images, which showed both figures with visible blood and bruises, directed users to fake BBC News articles promoting cryptocurrency.
Users of the app expressed outrage at the adverts, with Cardiff council’s cabinet member for culture, Jennifer Burke, describing them as ‘disturbing’. She questioned whether the publisher had a duty to vet the content advertised on their platform. Other users criticised the ads, labelling them ‘dystopian’.
The adverts appeared among genuine news articles on the app, which is part of Reach’s operation in Wales. Reach also publishes major United Kingdom news outlets, including the Mirror and the Express.
Both Alex Jones and Rachel Reeves have been contacted for comment, and Reach has been asked to address the situation.
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