Taylor Swift searches restored on X after sexually explicit deepfakes led to block

Fans can once again find Taylor Swift-related content on X after the social media platform formerly known as Twitter temporarily blocked searches for her when explicit deepfake images of the singer flooded the site.

“Search has been re-enabled and we will continue to be vigilant for any attempt to spread this content and will remove it if we find it,” Joe Benarroch, head of business operations at X, said in a statement.

Swift, 34, had become the target of users who circulated sexually explicit images created through artificial intelligence (AI). The situation has raised concerns from lawmakers and others who have struggled to rein in emerging AI technologies and the fallout that could ensue, particularly as the 2024 election approaches.

President Biden’s voice was used in an AI-generated robocall earlier this month that aimed to discourage New Hampshire voters from casting primary ballots.

Before X officials stepped in over the weekend, Swift’s fans attempted to drown out the images by spreading the #ProtectTaylorSwift hashtag and legitimate photos of the 12-time Grammy winner.

Searching for “Taylor Swift AI” still comes up with an error message on X as of Tuesday morning.

Swift has drawn intense public attention as she’s continued her record-setting “Eras Tour” and high-profile romance with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, whose team will be playing in the Super Bowl.