Meta is running get-rich-quick ads for its AI tools
Meta's $2B AI acquisition Manus pays creators to push unverified easy money schemes without disclosure
Deep Dive
Meta's $2B AI acquisition Manus ran ads and paid creators to promote a scheme: use AI to build websites for local businesses and sell them, claiming $5k/month in 10 minutes. Many creator accounts lacked disclosure of their paid ties. After The Verge inquired, some TikTok accounts were removed. Manus says disclosure is the creators' responsibility and that it is reviewing the content.
Key Points
- Manus, a Meta acquisition, paid creators to promote an AI website-building scheme as a 'side hustle' without proper disclosure, claiming $5k/month in 10 minutes.
- After The Verge inquired, some TikTok accounts were removed; Manus says it is reviewing the content but blames creators for failing to disclose paid ties.
- The campaign used near-identical videos and accounts run by young creators, with one LinkedIn profile showing a 'viral growth expert' role to coach creators on going viral.
Why It Matters
Raises red flags about AI tools being marketed with unverified income claims and influencer disclosure loopholes.