Courageous step by Italy's head of governmentFight against fake pictures – Meloni posts herself in her underwear

May 6, 2026 around 3:25 p.m Clock

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni posted an AI-generated photo of herself on social media and called for responsible behavior. The politician writes on

“I have to acknowledge that whoever created it, at least in the attached case, actually improved me significantly,” she notes. “But the fact remains that everything is now being used just to attack and invent falsehoods.” In the deepfake, Meloni can be seen sitting on a bed, apparently lightly dressed. The fake image had previously been shared massively on social networks.

But it's not just about them, says Meloni. “Deepfakes are a dangerous tool because they can deceive, manipulate and affect anyone. I can defend myself. Many others cannot.” That's why one rule should always apply: “First check, then believe, and first believe, then share.” What happened to her today could happen to anyone tomorrow.

Italy's head of government was already confronted with manipulated photos of herself in late summer last year. A scandal surrounding the spread of misogynistic and sexist photos on online platforms had shaken Italy. The porn website “Phica” had been distributing photos of prominent women, some real and some manipulated, for many years.

Giorgia Meloni was among the victims. The politician was “disgusted by what happened” and called on all women who were also affected to report the matter to the police. This is “the best defense to protect ourselves and those around us.” The platform had more than 700,000 subscribers before it was shut down in August 2025.

Sources used: gut/dpa/AFP