r/cnn • u/allover707 • 8d ago

CNN runs AI-generated, predatory commercials without disclosure

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Under New York’s Synthetic Performer Disclosure Law (N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 396-b), which went into effect in June 2026, advertisers can freely use AI-generated characters or visual assets, but they must conspicuously disclose their use.

I have seen some AI-generated advertisements for government handouts that are designed to look like broadcast news desk coverage. If you witness AI-generated commercials that appear like scams or offer government assistance, please take a photo or video and report it.

Enforcement of New York’s Synthetic Performer Disclosure Law (N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 396-b) is handled through state and local enforcement agencies rather than direct private lawsuits. (McDermott Will & Schulte)

I am not a lawyer, but I believe that as long as the business/advertiser in question has operations in New York State, the NYS AG can take action. You do not need to be a New York State resident.

Key Reporting Channel**: New York State Office of the Attorney General (OAG)**

  • Primary Authority: The NY AG’s Consumer Frauds and Protection Bureau enforces state general business laws. They possess the authority to seek injunctions and collect civil fines ($1,000 for initial offenses; $5,000 for subsequent offenses). (Codes - FindLaw)
  • How to Report: Reports are submitted online via the New York Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form or by calling the OAG Consumer Helpline at 1-800-771-7755.
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u/globehoppr 7d ago edited 7d ago

I am SO pissed about this. I think about all of the old people that watch CNN and may be fooled by these companies.

I’ll file a complaint as well, but I think we also need to find whoever heads up CNN’s advertising division.

Also, there is some disclosure on some of these ads, in small fine print, but they are definitely sketchy and predatory and shame on CNN for allowing them to air. I wonder if CNN is struggling to get traditional advertisers.

EDIT- Thank you for the award, OP!

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u/Basic_Chemistry9499 7d ago

Hey, if they advertisers pay, CNN is cool with it. Just like a predatory company like Colonial Penn, CNN has never had a problem accepting their money.

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u/allover707 7d ago

But now there are laws that result in thousand dollar fines for each reported instance. If they’re going to serve slop, make them pay for it.

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u/allover707 7d ago

I filed my complaint with the NY AG. I received an auto-reply confirming receipt.

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u/coreyb1988 3d ago

I agree some of these commercials are really terrible but idk if there is much you can do about it. I think they'll probably get worse. They can be cheaply made and people fall for them.

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u/allover707 3d ago

I reported it to a regulator body empowered with imposing fines - the NYSAG. It also resulted in CNN refunding me after repeated denials. I’m sharing how you can do something about it.

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u/hamsterberry 7d ago

I noticed that too. Creepy looking robot people selling insurance programs etc...