The world is dominated by visual stimuli and infinite scrolling. AI-generated images have found fertile ground: “ghiblified” portraits with anime aesthetics, digital dolls with impossible proportions… This trend is booming. But beneath the digital beauty lies a tangible risk: your privacy. This article examines the hidden dangers behind these viral fads and why a password manager is key for your security.
Ghibli Aesthetic Reimagined by AI: Visual Pleasure and the Fine Print
Certain tools (Midjourney, Lensa, or DALL·E) are democratizing visual creation. Anyone can generate a Ghibli-style image of themselves; all it takes is uploading a photo. But what seems harmless can actually be a voluntary surrender of biometric data.
And this much is true: these platforms collect facial information, location, image metadata, and usage patterns. For what purpose? Sometimes, to train new AI models. Other times, to sell your data to third parties. And you, happily enjoying your anime version.
Digital Dolls: The New Obsession Driven by AI
Hyper-realistic AI-generated dolls are sweeping social networks. TikTok and Instagram are prime examples. These figures mix action aesthetics with idealized features and have become aspirational symbols. What’s unsettling is that, often, these images are generated from real user profiles. In other words: your public photos may fuel the next viral avatar without you knowing it. That "like" may cost more than you think.
Privacy for Clicks: The Invisible Toll of “Free”
The beauty of AI-generated images is seductive. But few stop to think about what they’re giving in return. By uploading a photo or granting access to your gallery, these platforms collect and store your face, location, aesthetic preferences, and editing history. It’s not just creativity: it’s silent data extraction. That hidden layer of digital surveillance should make you think twice before generating your next “ghiblified” image.
The Reverse Engineering of the Human Face: More Real Than You Think
There’s no doubt that AI can reconstruct famous faces like Jesus of Nazareth. It can also create original expressions from generated images. Imagine you upload a selfie to “ghiblify” it; months later, your face appears in a questionable campaign or deepfake. This isn’t a conspiracy theory. A complete identity can be traced from a single photo. Do you really want to leave your face floating on unknown servers?
Protect Yourself with Effective Tools Before Using AI Images
Beyond caution, having the right tools makes a difference. It’s not about stopping using AI. That’s not necessary. Your goal should be different: shield yourself from its invisible threats. A password manager, a reliable VPN, and a browser with privacy features can be your best allies. They have many advantages.
Tool |
Main function |
Advantages |
Password manager |
Generate and store secure passwords |
Protects your accounts if they are leaked |
VPN |
Hide IP and encrypt your connection |
Prevents tracking and unauthorized access |
Private browser |
Browsing without tracking or cookies |
Reduces digital footprint and ad tracking |
Updated antimalware |
Detect suspicious files |
Blocks spyware from stealing information |
You don’t have to be an expert. Implementing these tools is easy. The important thing is to pair your use of AI platforms with a basic cybersecurity strategy.
Conclusion: Create Freely, But Never Let Your Guard Down
The revolution of AI-generated images is unstoppable. But like everything that grows without regulation, it requires vigilance. If you’re joining this trend, do so with awareness. Protect yourself with effective tools like a good password manager by your side. Remember, every click, every uploaded image, and every permission granted leaves a trace. Using defensive technology isn’t paranoia—it’s digital common sense. In a world where everything is becoming digital, your privacy is the only thing you can still protect. Stay informed.