# Apple removes 19 apps after investigation uncovers hidden abusive deepfake tools

_Published Monday, November 2, 2026 at 5:21 AM EST · AI, Products · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

![Apple removes 19 apps after investigation uncovers hidden abusive deepfake tools — Primary](https://media.wired.com/photos/6adfc11328ba980ed3d0219a/191:100/w_1280,c_limit/Security_ChinaAppsBehindDeepFakes_v1.jpg)

Apple removed 19 apps after a WIRED investigation identified a network of more than 400 connected domains and apps that concealed sexually abusive deepfake tools behind ordinary services. Meta said it blocked 209 apps from advertising on its platforms after WIRED shared the domains.

Researchers found that servers selectively directed users to explicit image and video generators, with arrival through an associated Meta ad appearing to be one trigger. Users could upload photographs and pay through Apple and Google Pay.

Apple said developers replaced approved website content after app review. Google had removed the majority of the apps before WIRED contacted it. Similar ads and apps continued appearing as WIRED finished its reporting.

## Sources

- [WIRED](https://www.wired.com/story/hundreds-of-mundane-ai-apps-are-hiding-abusive-deepfake-features/)

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Canonical: https://techandbusiness.org/newswire/KXa4SASKCLBVb08Y0AURv9
Published: 2026-11-02T10:21:21.361Z
Story chronology: 2026-11-02T10:00:00.000Z
Retrieved: 2026-11-02T12:39:36.481Z
Publisher: Tech & Business (techandbusiness.org)