• Fake ICE raids created by artificial intelligence are going viral across Facebook’s feed
• Critics warn that these videos are being confused for real immigration enforcement footage
• Meta’s algorithms help drive millions of views to dehumanizing, misleading content

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (TDR) — Viral videos depicting dramatic Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids—complete with desperate families and distressed workers—are sweeping across Facebook. But these so-called “footage” clips are actually AI-generated ICE raid videos, created by digital tools and platforms that simulate real immigration crackdowns. The videos bombard viewers with misleading workplace deportation scenes, making it hard to distinguish fact from fabrication on social media.

AI videos confuse and outrage Facebook users

The trend hit a peak when one clip featuring “ICE agents” confronting a line of “Walmart employees” racked up 4 million views in days. Some viewers caught glitches—like officers’ feet merging through one another—but many comments treated the video as authentic. Phrases like “They’re finally cleaning up Walmart” popped up next to more skeptical messages: “Why is the guy walking sideways?”

Researchers tracking the phenomenon note that Facebook’s algorithms reward shocking visuals. The platform pushes viral content regardless of accuracy, and accounts like “USA Journey 897” post multiple fake ICE raid videos each day. Some clips even mimic real government propaganda, intensifying debates among viewers and advocacy groups.

Platform response and content moderation concerns

Questions about content moderation emerged as these AI-generated deportation clips continued to circulate. Facebook, owned by Meta, has come under scrutiny for changes to its content standards allowing harsher rhetoric. Moderation experts warn that people are becoming desensitized to genuine enforcement footage, as fake videos “muddy the waters” and dilute the impact of real news.

“The endless stream of AI raids leaves the public unsure what to believe,” said a digital researcher tracking the spread of viral immigration misinformation.

Immigrant communities grapple with fallout

Many immigrant advocacy groups report that community members are nervous and alarmed by these AI-generated viral videos. Some are afraid actual events will go ignored or dismissed as fiction. Critics argue that these videos serve to “inoculate” audiences against the true impact of ICE enforcement, distorting public perception of both legal and humanitarian realities.

Fact-checkers on sites like Yahoo News and BBC News work to flag misleading content, but, as one commentator noted, “platforms rarely intervene before videos reach millions.”

The business behind the viral deepfakes

Further investigation reveals that creators of these viral AI clips may operate outside the United States. Some accounts link to unrelated pages that feature generic content and side-hustle tips, raising questions about their real motivation. Analysis by 404 Media suggests that Facebook’s payment scheme for viral content incentivizes the creation of shocking, dehumanizing material—regardless of its authenticity.

The company’s official stance remains unclear. Meta did not respond to requests for comment from journalists probing whether these accounts violate content standards.

Will the spread of AI-generated enforcement videos change how we understand—and regulate—immigration news online?