AI-generated influencers: A new wave of cultural exploitation

This collage shows (left to right) Shudu, Miquela Sousa, imma, and Rozy -- four "vritual influencers" who collectively have over 3 million followers on Instagram alone. @shudu.gram, @lilmiquela, @imma.gram, @rozy.gram/Instagram

You probably know what an “influencer” is — people with large, highly engaged social media followings who have the power to sway beliefs and purchasing decisions.

But you might not have yet heard of virtual influencers.