'Happening to everybody': AI-manipulated images…

In July 2026, former Papua New Guinea television host Jennifer Baing reported that scammers were using artificial intelligence to manipulate her likeness for malicious purposes. The incident highlights the growing threat of AI-driven digital impersonation and the challenges faced by individuals in protecting their reputations and personal safety from online exploitation.

What happened

Scammers utilized AI to manipulate photos taken from Ms. Baing's social media accounts, creating fake imagery including content depicting her in revealing lingerie. These manipulated images were disseminated across nearly 100 Facebook accounts that either cloned her profile or used AI to fabricate scenes of her handing out cash to promote fraudulent giveaways. The scammers used these assets to solicit money from the public under the guise of fake contests.

Ms. Baing, who is preparing to contest a parliamentary seat in the 2028 national election, noted that the abuse extends beyond reputational damage to direct threats against her physical safety. Despite repeated reports to the social media platform, the fake accounts remained active. The incident has prompted discussions regarding new legislative reforms in Papua New Guinea aimed at criminalizing the malicious use of AI, including deepfakes, voice cloning, and digital impersonation. Local authorities, including the PNG Cybercrime Unit, have noted a sharp rise in AI-related complaints, citing the severe psychological impact on victims and the difficulties police face in keeping pace with the volume of digital offenses.