Sneako deepfake video — Sep 2024

On September 15, 2024, streamer Sneako announced his intention to pursue legal action against the crypto casino platform Duel following the release of an offensive AI-generated promotional video. The content depicted an AI-synthesized version of the streamer praying on a rug placed atop a blackjack table, alongside claims that he endorsed the platform as a halal casino.

What happened

The controversy erupted after Duel published a video featuring an AI-generated likeness of Sneako, who has publicly identified as Muslim since 2023. The imagery caused significant backlash by mixing the streamer's religious practices with casino gambling. Sneako publicly condemned the advertisement on X, expressing extreme anger toward those involved in the production and approval of the campaign. He stated his intent to sue the company for all available damages, noting that he planned to use any potential settlement funds to build a school in Gaza.

In response to the incident, Duel issued an official apology, acknowledging that the advertisement was "tone-deaf" and a "transgression" against the Muslim community. While a company representative initially characterized the incident as the work of a "rogue agent," Duel later clarified that the content team had handled the advertisement from start to finish. The company confirmed that the employee identified as Nelli, who was responsible for the AI edit, was fired effective immediately. Despite the apology and the termination of the staff member, Sneako has signaled that his dissatisfaction remains, though he has not yet detailed the specific legal claims he intends to file.