Post intern debunks McConnell ‘proof of life’ photo with metadata and forensics

TL;DR Summary
A Washington Post intern examined Mitch McConnell’s viral “proof of life” photo showing the paper’s sports section and found metadata dated the image to a Sunday, debunking claims it was years old or AI-generated. Digital forensics expert Hany Farid said there is no evidence of AI manipulation and that the visible newspaper and lighting are consistent with the day’s sports section. McConnell, who has been out of public view since June 14 after a fall and a bout with pneumonia, says he’s recovering in rehab and plans to retire next year; he is not seeking reelection.
Topics:nation#ai-generated-image#conspiracy-theories#digital-forensics#mitch-mcconnell#us-politics#washington-post
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- McConnell took a photo with that day’s newspaper. The internet has questions. The Washington Post
- Conspiracy theories about Sen. McConnell’s health spread after his office posts hospital photo NBC News
- There's no evidence this Mitch McConnell photo is AI-generated BBC
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