YouTube has expanded access to its AI-powered likeness detection tool to all users above the age of 18, marking a major step in tackling the growing concerns around AI-generated deepfake content online. The feature is aimed at helping users identify and report videos that may contain synthetic or manipulated versions of their face created using artificial intelligence.

According to a Storyboard18 report, the expanded rollout was officially announced through YouTube’s creator forum on May 16. The tool was first introduced in October 2025 for a limited group of creators, celebrities and public figures as part of the platform’s early efforts to address the misuse of generative AI technologies.

The likeness detection system works in a way similar to YouTube’s Content ID technology, but instead of scanning for copyrighted audio or video material, it searches for facial similarities in uploaded content. Users who wish to activate the feature are required to complete a selfie-style facial scan during the setup process. Once enabled, the system continuously monitors newly uploaded videos for potential facial matches and alerts users if their likeness appears to have been used.

If suspicious content is identified, users can review the flagged video and request its removal through YouTube’s existing privacy complaint process. The company said the feature is available to all adult creators and users, regardless of their subscriber count or popularity on the platform.

A spokesperson from YouTube stated that there are no minimum eligibility requirements to access the system, allowing both new and established creators to use the protection tool against AI-generated impersonation content.

The expansion comes at a time when concerns around deepfakes and synthetic media are increasing globally. AI-generated videos involving politicians, celebrities, journalists and private individuals have become more sophisticated, raising questions around misinformation, online safety and digital identity protection.

YouTube also clarified that the system may sometimes detect videos containing a user’s actual face, including older uploaded videos, which may not automatically qualify for removal under the platform’s privacy policies. Users will still need to review the content and submit formal requests where necessary.

The company said users can enable the feature through YouTube Studio by navigating to the “Content Detection” section, selecting “Likeness,” and completing the setup process. While the platform has now expanded access widely, YouTube noted that the number of removal requests filed through the new likeness detection system has remained relatively low so far.