AI models are increasingly appearing on adult content platforms like OnlyFans and Fanvue, occasionally using stolen images. Some are even selling $220 courses on creating profitable AI adult creators. This raises questions about whether AI harms adult creators and if subscribers are aware they're interacting with a computer. Last winter, reports emerged that AI could replace humans in the online influencer role. Articles highlighted AI influencers on Instagram gaining significant followings and securing brand deals. However, these influencers, unlike artsy conceptions like Lil Miquela, have a different agenda. One popular AI account linked to Fanvue from Instagram. On Fanvue, it offered provocative photos, including nude shots for $7 a month. It's odd to reference "her" since this is an AI creation, but this reflects the current reality in 2024. The primary business model was adult content; social media served as the funnel to steer traffic to sites like Fanvue for subscriptions. Once there, users encountered more AI-generated images and videos. 404 Media, a tech-news site, recently explored this booming "AI pimping" industry, uncovering numerous AI-driven accounts on OnlyFans and Fanvue.

Alarmingly, many accounts featured deepfakes or face swaps—real faces on AI bodies. A side economy exists of people selling guides to starting AI model businesses. One course priced at $220 teaches how to create AI adult influencers. According to Fanvue, stealing identities with images breaches their rules, and they use third-party moderation tools and human moderators to tackle issues like deepfakes. OnlyFans' policy prohibits models from employing AI chatbots and allows AI content only if identified as such, featuring only verified creators, not others. While AI adult content raises concerns, some argue it resembles cartoon pornography. Real-life creators, however, worry about AI's impact on their industry. Some find AI tools helpful, such as AI chatbots for fan interaction, but fear losing fans' trust. It's unclear if fans realize these AI personas aren’t real. On one AI-generated woman's account, many seem to believe she’s human. Occasionally, her Fanvue displays pink-haired anime versions. One paying customer requested to see the outfit on the "real" woman, unaware neither version is real.