Latest Influencer News in 2026
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TikTok Fails \’Disinformation Test\’, Approves Fake News Ads About EU Elections
A recent report has revealed that the widely popular social network TikTok approved advertisements containing political disinformation ahead of European polls, raising concerns about its ability to detect election falsehoods and flouting its own guidelines. The report, issued by the international campaign group Global Witness, highlighted that TikTok approved all 16 ads created by the group, which targeted Irish audiences with false information about the EU elections. This revelation has sparked questions about the platform\'s capacity to identify and prevent the spread of election-related disinformation, especially given the platform\'s advanced tools like the TikTok Ads Manager. The ads, submitted by Global Witness, contained content posing a risk to electoral processes, including false warnings to voters about poll violence and contagious diseases, as well as misleading information about the voting age and the method of casting votes. While TikTok acknowledged that the ads violated its policies, it attributed their approval to \"human error\" by a moderator and stated that new processes have been implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future. This incident has underscored the challenges TikTok faces in adhering to TikTok EU regulation, which demands stringent oversight to prevent the spread of disinformation. The failure of TikTok to detect and filter out these ads has raised significant concerns, particularly as tech campaigners and regulatory bodies continue to emphasize the need for platforms to address the proliferation of disinformation during elections. The report has prompted Global Witness to submit a formal complaint to Irish regulators, citing potential violations of European rules aimed at mitigating electoral threats. The spread of TikTok fake information, especially during crucial electoral periods, poses a significant threat to democratic processes. This incident comes in the wake of the European Union\'s publication of guidelines under the Digital Services Act (DSA), which demands that major platforms, including TikTok, take action to reduce the risk of poll interference. Despite TikTok\'s previous statements detailing comprehensive measures to protect election integrity, the platform\'s approval of ads containing political disinformation has underscored the challenges in effectively addressing and preventing the spread of false information. The rise of TikTok fake news further complicates the task of maintaining a trustworthy information ecosystem on the platform. The revelation about TikTok\'s approval of misleading political ads has sparked widespread concern and calls for greater vigilance in safeguarding the integrity of electoral processes. As the platform faces scrutiny for its role in disseminating election-related disinformation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for robust measures to combat the spread of false information, particularly during significant electoral events. The integration of robust verification processes within tools like the TikTok Ads Manager and strict adherence to TikTok EU regulation are essential steps in ensuring that such lapses do not occur in the future.
Plus-Size Travel Influencers Forces Uber, Lyft To Provide Seatbelt Extenders
Plus-size travel influencer Jaelynn Chaney, also known as Jae Bae, has expanded her advocacy for fat-pride activism to include rideshare companies, urging them to make seat belt extenders available for plus-size passengers. In a video posted to TikTok, Chaney highlighted the common issue faced by many plus-size individuals who are forced to go without a seatbelt due to the unavailability of belt extenders in ride shares, emphasizing the safety concerns associated with this situation. Chaney\'s call for rideshare companies to provide at least one seatbelt extender per vehicle aims to address the safety needs of plus-size passengers and eliminate the inconvenience and potential risks they face. She also emphasized the importance of ensuring that seatbelt extenders are specifically fitted for each vehicle to effectively address the needs of plus-size passengers. In response to potential criticism, Chaney clarified that she always carries a universal seatbelt extender with her on rides, but often encounters issues with their functionality despite being advertised as \'universal.\' Additionally, she suggested that companies such as Uber and Lyft should reimburse drivers for the cost of seatbelt extenders, which are available for as low as $12 on Amazon. While Chaney\'s advocacy has garnered attention and support from some quarters, the majority of commenters expressed skepticism and criticism, attributing the issue to her rather than the rideshare companies. This latest initiative by Chaney reflects her ongoing efforts to advocate for the rights and safety of plus-size individuals, particularly in the context of travel and transportation. As a travel influencer, Chaney frequently shares travel influencer tips with her audience, focusing on the unique challenges and experiences of plus-size travelers. Her previous endeavors have included advocating for free extra seats for obese fliers on airlines, as well as calling for changes in hotel amenities to better accommodate overweight guests. Her efforts have sparked widespread discussions and debates, underscoring the complex and multifaceted nature of issues related to body positivity, inclusivity, and safety in various aspects of travel and hospitality. Chaney\'s persistent advocacy for the rights and representation of plus-size individuals has also drawn attention to the broader societal attitudes and challenges faced by individuals of diverse body types. By using her platform as a plus-size travel influencer to shed light on the experiences of discrimination and obstacles encountered by plus-size individuals, Chaney has sparked important conversations about inclusivity, accessibility, and the need for systemic changes to better accommodate individuals of varying body sizes. While her initiatives have sparked debates and critiques, they have also contributed to raising awareness about the importance of considering the diverse needs of individuals across different sectors, including transportation and hospitality.
Study: Fitness Influencer Fans Exercise More But Have Poorer Mental Health
A recent study published in the Cyberpsychology Journal has revealed that young adults who follow fitness influencers on social media are more likely to engage in vigorous exercise and consume more fruits and vegetables, indicating a commitment to healthier lifestyles. However, the study also found that these followers reported higher levels of mental distress and poorer well-being, suggesting a complex relationship between physical health and mental well-being among this demographic. The survey, which involved 1,022 young adults aged 18 to 35 from three English-speaking countries, highlighted the significant influence of top fitness influencers on the health behaviors and mental health of their followers. While followers of fitness influencers demonstrated a higher propensity for vigorous exercise and healthy dietary habits, they also reported heightened levels of mental distress and poorer overall well-being compared to non-followers. This dichotomy underscores the potential impact of fitness influencers on the mental and physical health of their audience. The study\'s findings shed light on the vulnerability of young adults who actively follow fitness influencers on social media, particularly in relation to potential compulsive behaviors related to fitness and food, including the risk of developing eating disorders. The researchers emphasized the need to address the negative effects of following fitness influencers, citing previous studies that have highlighted the detrimental impact of social media content on mental and physical health, particularly in promoting unhealthy food intake, negative body image, and mood disturbances. The study also referenced a systematic review of intervention studies, which revealed that social media influencers sharing health information or promoting idealized images can have negative effects on the mental and physical well-being of their followers. The perpetuation of the \"fit ideal\" by fitness influencers was identified as a potential factor contributing to appearance-motivated exercising and the associated risks to mental health, including feelings of depression, anxiety, and negative body image. These findings underline the effectiveness of fitness influencers in promoting physical health behaviors, but they also highlight the need to understand the broader implications of their influence. The impact of fitness influencer effectiveness on their followers\' mental health cannot be overlooked, as the pressure to conform to idealized fitness standards can contribute to significant mental distress. The study\'s findings underscore the need for a nuanced understanding of the influence of fitness influencers on social media and the potential implications for the mental and physical well-being of their followers. By highlighting the complex interplay between physical health behaviors and mental health outcomes, the study contributes to ongoing discussions about the impact of social media content on individuals\' overall well-being and the need for responsible and balanced messaging in the realm of fitness and wellness promotion. The study\'s findings also underscore the importance of promoting a holistic approach to health and wellness, emphasizing the significance of balanced and sustainable habits that prioritize both physical and mental well-being. By raising awareness about the potential risks associated with appearance-motivated exercising and the consumption of idealized fitness content on social media, the study highlights the need for individuals to cultivate a positive and realistic relationship with health and fitness. Furthermore, it encourages a critical evaluation of the content consumed on social media platforms, emphasizing the importance of seeking well-rounded and evidence-based guidance to support overall health and well-being. This research serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of health promotion in the digital age and the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals to pursue balanced and positive health behaviors. The effects of social media on mental health are profound, particularly when it involves the consumption of content from fitness influencers, underscoring the need for mindful engagement with such platforms.
PepsiCo CMO Todd Kaplan Steps Down After 17 Years
PepsiCo\'s chief marketing officer, Todd Kaplan, renowned for spearheading the high-profile Pepsi rebrand last year, is bidding farewell to the beverage giant after a remarkable 17-year tenure. Kaplan, who has served as the PepsiCo CMO for the past two and a half years, announced his departure on LinkedIn, expressing gratitude for the diverse experiences and impactful collaborations he has encountered during his tenure at PepsiCo. While he did not disclose details about his next endeavor, Kaplan conveyed his enthusiasm for embarking on new challenges and exploring fresh opportunities beyond the company. Kaplan\'s departure comes in the wake of his pivotal role in orchestrating the 2023 Pepsi rebrand, which marked the beverage brand\'s 125th anniversary. The rebrand, which included the launch of an experiential Pepsi Diner paying homage to the brand\'s rich history, underscored Kaplan\'s commitment to fostering cultural moments and pushing the boundaries of creativity in the industry. Additionally, Kaplan played a significant role in the successful launches of Lifewtr and Bubly, further solidifying his impact on PepsiCo\'s marketing strategy. The news of Kaplan\'s departure has sparked speculation about the potential implications for PepsiCo\'s marketing strategy and its agency roster, which includes renowned partners such as VaynerMedia, Translation, Motive, OMD, and Mrs&Mr. Kaplan\'s departure also coincides with recent reports indicating that Pepsi\'s market share has been experiencing a decline, as highlighted by the Wall Street Journal\'s comparison of Dr Pepper and Pepsi as the second-biggest soda brands behind Coke. Kaplan\'s departure marks the end of an era at PepsiCo, signaling a transition to a new chapter for both the company and the accomplished marketing leader. As PepsiCo bids farewell to a visionary marketer who has left an indelible mark on the brand\'s legacy, the industry eagerly anticipates the next phase of Kaplan\'s career and the potential impact of his future endeavors.
Social Media Platforms Top Source Of Health Information For 15 to 30-Year-Olds: Study
Recent research conducted by Real Chemistry has shed light on a concerning trend: a significant increase in late-stage cancer diagnoses among young people, coupled with a decline in cancer screenings following the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to these alarming findings, Michelle Dunst, MD of integrated intelligence at Real Chemistry, spearheaded an in-depth investigation to understand the underlying factors and explore potential avenues for change. The resulting report, unveiled ahead of the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting, underscores the pivotal role of tailored influencer marketing in driving increased cancer screenings among young individuals. The report\'s findings emphasize the influential role of social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat, as primary sources of health information for individuals aged 15 to 30. Notably, the report highlights the impact of visually engaging content, particularly #GRWM (Get Ready With Me) videos on TikTok, in motivating individuals to undergo cancer screenings. Furthermore, the report underscores the significant contribution of women influencers in initiating conversations about cancer, particularly breast cancer, and driving engagement around cancer screenings. The influence of social media influencers, including celebrities and micro-influencers, in promoting cancer screenings is a key focal point of the report. It reveals that a substantial majority of individuals surveyed expressed a willingness to inquire about health-related content from influencers and demonstrated trust in pharmaceutical brands endorsed by influencers. Notable examples, such as Chrissy Teigen\'s candid documentation of her colonoscopy experience and Olivia Munn\'s advocacy for early cancer detection, underscore the potential of influencers to positively impact public health outcomes. The rise of TikTok health trends, in particular, has shown how top health influencers can harness the platform\'s unique format to disseminate critical health information effectively. These trends often feature influencers sharing personal health journeys, wellness tips, and preventive measures, which resonate strongly with younger audiences. This highlights the broader social media impact on health, showcasing how these platforms can be leveraged to promote proactive health behaviors. Additionally, the report underscores the importance of a strategic approach to influencer marketing, highlighting the significance of factors such as reach, relevance, resonance, and recency in identifying effective influencers. It points out how micro- and nano-influencers can drive engagement within niche communities and rare oncology segments, particularly on platforms like TikTok. This approach aligns with the broader theme of social media effects on healthcare, demonstrating how tailored digital strategies can lead to better health outcomes. Ultimately, the report\'s conclusions underscore the transformative potential of a targeted influencer marketing approach in driving increased cancer screenings and positively impacting patient outcomes. By leveraging the influential reach of social media influencers, particularly in the realm of health advocacy, the report advocates for a proactive and strategic approach to harnessing the power of influencer marketing to address critical public health concerns.
TikToker Goes Viral For Recreating TV Show Sets On \’Sims 4\’
TikTok sensation Paigey, known as \'paigeynd\' on the platform, has captivated audiences with her remarkable talent for recreating iconic TV sets from popular sitcoms in The Sims 4. Paigey, who has been an avid player of The Sims 4 for a considerable period, discovered her passion for building within the game and decided to share her creations with the world, leading to a surge in her popularity through TikTok trends. Paigey\'s engaging TikTok viral videos document her meticulous process of recreating beloved TV sets, featuring well-known locations from hit sitcoms of the 2000s era. Notable recreations include Monica\'s apartment from \"Friends,\" Penny\'s apartment from \"The Big Bang Theory,\" and Ted\'s apartment from \"How I Met Your Mother.\" While sitcoms form the cornerstone of Paigey\'s creations, she has also ventured into other genres, showcasing her rendition of Salvatore\'s house from \"The Vampire Diaries.\" With each video amassing thousands of views, Paigey\'s meticulous attention to detail and creative prowess have garnered widespread acclaim from viewers. The comments section of her TikTok viral videos is flooded with praise and suggestions, with many expressing amazement at her talent and eagerly anticipating more of her captivating creations. The impact of Paigey\'s TikTok Sims 4 videos extends beyond admiration, as they have inspired others to delve into the world of The Sims 4 and embark on their own set recreations. One viewer expressed their enthusiasm, stating, \"Old guy here. Haven’t played The Sims since the original. This looks mad, and it tickles something in my brain. Time to download that modern stuff,\" highlighting the infectious appeal of Paigey\'s content. Paigey\'s innovative approach to blending popular culture with virtual creativity has resonated with audiences, offering a nostalgic and visually captivating experience. As her fan base continues to grow, Paigey\'s ability to transport viewers into the familiar settings of beloved TV shows through her TikTok Sims 4 creations reaffirms the immersive and enduring appeal of digital content creation in the realm of entertainment and pop culture.
TikTok Sleep Tips For Adults Are Actually Effective And Backed By Science, Study Shows
Auburn University has conducted a study revealing that the majority of sleep tips shared on TikTok are supported by scientific evidence, catering to the increasing use of social media for health information among younger generations. The study, to be presented at the SLEEP 2024 meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies in Houston, transcribed 295 sleep tips from the most-viewed TikToks using the tags #sleephacks, #sleephygiene, or #sleeptips on November 15 and 16, 2023. Within these TikToks, 35 unique sleep tips were identified and grouped into seven themes, including calming activities, use of electronics, environmental factors, dietary restrictions and preferences, sleep schedule, and other sleep-related behaviors such as mouth taping. The study found that 29 out of the 35 sleep tips collected during the two-day period in November were backed by scientific research. These evidence-supported tips covered various aspects of sleep, including breathwork before bed, limiting screen time before bed, sleeping in a cool and dark room, avoiding caffeine before bed, and using magnesium. Additionally, maintaining consistent bed and wake times was highlighted, alongside other sleep-related behaviors. The comprehensive analysis indicates that these tips are aligned with scientific evidence, providing valuable and accurate information to TikTok users seeking sleep-related advice. This research sheds light on the credibility of sleep tips shared on TikTok, addressing concerns about the reliability and accuracy of health information disseminated on social media platforms. With the increasing reliance on social media for health-related guidance, the study\'s findings offer reassurance that a significant portion of sleep hacks shared on TikTok are supported by scientific evidence. The identification of themes and the subsequent validation of the majority of sleep tips contribute to the understanding of the impact of social media on health information dissemination, particularly in the context of promoting healthy sleep habits among younger demographics. The dissemination of evidence-supported sleep tips on TikTok not only enhances the accessibility of reliable health information but also underscores the potential for social media platforms to positively influence health behaviors. By presenting scientifically backed sleep tips, TikTok has the opportunity to contribute to the improvement of sleep hygiene and overall well-being among its user base. The study\'s findings highlight the potential for social media platforms to serve as effective channels for the widespread dissemination of scientifically sound health information, catering to the evolving information-seeking behaviors of younger generations. The study\'s recognition of the alignment between TikTok sleep tips and scientific evidence serves as a notable endorsement of the platform\'s potential as a source of accurate health information. It highlights the platform\'s capacity to engage and inform a younger audience with scientifically validated content, fostering a positive influence on their health-related decision-making. This reassurance regarding the credibility of sleep tips shared on TikTok may encourage users to seek and implement evidence-based strategies for improving their sleep quality and overall well-being. However, the study also identified six sleep tips that were unsupported by scientific evidence. While these unsupported tips represent a minority among the sampled content, their presence underscores the importance of critical evaluation when consuming health information on social media. It is essential for users to exercise discernment and verify the validity of health-related advice, particularly in an environment where information dissemination is rapid and widespread. As social media continues to play a significant role in health education, promoting awareness and understanding of evidence-based practices remains essential to safeguarding the public\'s health.
X Now Allows Porn And Nudity Weeks After Killing Twitter.com
X, formerly known as Twitter, has recently made a significant change to its platform by implementing a new porn policy. The company now allows users to post adult content on its site as long as it is consensual and follows certain guidelines. This policy was already in practice before billionaire Elon Musk acquired the platform in 2022, but it has now been formalized and clarified. X.com, the adult content section of the platform, is now a designated space for users to create, distribute, and consume sexual content. X emphasizes that sexual expression, whether visual or written, can be a legitimate form of artistic expression. However, the company still places restrictions on adult content to protect children and users who choose not to see it. X prohibits content that promotes exploitation, nonconsent, objectification, sexualization or harm to minors, and obscene behaviors. Additionally, adult content is not allowed in highly visible areas like user profile photos or banners. This new policy sets X apart from other social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, which have stricter guidelines regarding nudity and sexual expression. X\'s move to allow adult content aligns with its post-Musk marketing strategy, as the platform seeks to differentiate itself from its more conservative competitors. It also opens up opportunities for creators and artists who have been marginalized by other platforms due to the content they produce. To ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all users, X encourages those who regularly post adult content to adjust their media settings. This allows them to place all images and videos behind a content warning, requiring users to acknowledge their desire to view the content before accessing it. This change in policy has sparked debates about the future of content moderation on social media platforms. Some argue that X\'s decision will lead to increased exposure to harmful and exploitative content, while others see it as a necessary step towards greater freedom of expression. As X moves forward with its new adult content policy, only time will tell how it will impact the platform and its users. It remains to be seen whether this move will attract a new audience or face backlash from those who prefer a more conservative approach to content moderation. Nonetheless, X\'s willingness to embrace adult content sets it apart and showcases its commitment to providing a space for diverse forms of expression.
AI Music Generators Used For Hateful And Racist Songs Sees Significant Surge, New Research Shows
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) music generators has led to a troubling increase in the creation of homophobic, racist, and propagandistic songs, according to new research. These AI tools, which include features like AI music generators with vocals and AI music generators from lyrics, have been exploited by malicious actors to produce and disseminate offensive content, as reported by TechCrunch. ActiveFence, a service dedicated to managing trust and safety on online platforms, has identified a significant surge in discussions within hate speech-related communities since March. These communities are actively sharing methods to misuse AI song generators to craft hateful songs targeting various minority groups. The AI-generated music found in these forums is aimed at inciting hatred towards ethnic, gender, racial, and religious groups, as well as glorifying acts of martyrdom, self-harm, and terrorism. While the phenomenon of hateful songs is not new, the accessibility and ease of use of AI music generators have amplified the problem. With tools such as Udio and Suno, even individuals without musical expertise can create and distribute offensive content on a large scale. This mirrors the way AI-generated images, voice, video, and text have facilitated the spread of misinformation and hate speech. “These trends are intensifying as more users learn how to generate and share these songs,” an ActiveFence spokesperson told TechCrunch. “Threat actors are quickly identifying specific vulnerabilities to abuse these platforms and generate malicious content.” Generative AI music tools like Udio and Suno enable users to add custom lyrics to the generated songs. Although these platforms have implemented safeguards to filter out common slurs and pejoratives, users have devised workarounds to bypass these filters. According to ActiveFence, users in white supremacist forums have shared phonetic spellings and altered spacings to evade detection. For example, using “jooz” instead of “Jews” or “say tan” instead of “Satan,” and replacing “my rape” with “mire ape.” TechCrunch conducted tests on these workarounds using Udio and Suno. The results showed that Suno allowed all the tested offensive terms through, while Udio blocked some but not all of the homophones. The report highlights the need for more robust safeguards and proactive measures by platforms hosting AI music generators. As the capabilities of AI song generators continue to advance, it is crucial to address these vulnerabilities to prevent the proliferation of harmful and hateful content.
Influencer Marketing Value To Hit $118 Billion By 2031 With Annual Growth Rate Of 30.81%: Report
The influencer marketing market value has been steadily increasing, with the global influencer marketing platform market being valued at US$ 10.5 billion in 2022. However, this figure is expected to soar to an astonishing US$ 118 billion by 2031, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30.81%. This remarkable surge showcases the growing reliance of businesses on influencers to reach and engage their target audiences effectively. One of the key drivers behind this exponential growth is the rise of social media. With their large and devoted followings, influencers provide brands with a direct channel to reach specific consumer demographics. Moreover, consumers often place more trust in influencer recommendations than in traditional forms of advertising, leading to increased engagement and conversion rates. The development of advanced analytics tools has also contributed to the expansion of the influencer marketing industry. These platforms enable brands to track the performance of their campaigns, measure return on investment (ROI), and refine their strategies for maximum impact. Additionally, influencer marketing is often more cost-effective than traditional advertising, providing brands with a higher return on investment. The global influencer marketing platform market can be segmented based on various factors, including platform type, application, and end-user industry. The platform types include campaign management, analytics and reporting, social media management, and influencer relationship management. The applications of influencer marketing span across various sectors, such as fashion and lifestyle, food and beverage, travel and tourism, health and fitness, and technology and gaming. The end-user industries that heavily rely on influencer marketing include retail, consumer goods, media and entertainment, healthcare, and financial services. Significant growth in the influencer marketing platform market can be observed across different regions. North America leads the market, owing to its early adoption of digital marketing trends and the high concentration of influencers and brands. Europe closely follows, driven by the increasing popularity of influencer marketing in countries like the UK, Germany, and France. Asia-Pacific is poised to experience the highest growth rate, fueled by the rapid rise of social media users and the thriving e-commerce industry in countries such as China, India, and Japan. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing substantial growth as brands in these regions recognize the potential of influencer marketing. Looking ahead, the future of the influencer marketing platform market appears promising. Continued technological advancements will lead to the development of even more sophisticated tools for influencer identification, campaign management, and performance analytics. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of influencer marketing strategies. The unprecedented growth of the influencer marketing platform market highlights the immense power of influencers in the digital landscape. Brands that embrace this dynamic marketing strategy will be well-positioned to connect with their target audiences, build brand loyalty, and drive sales in the years to come. The influencer marketing statistics clearly demonstrate the potential and significance of this rapidly evolving industry.