A wave of AI-powered applications transforming selfies into dreamy, Studio Ghibli-style artwork has taken social media by storm. However, UAE cybersecurity officials and media experts are raising red flags about the hidden dangers behind the viral trend. They are warning users of serious privacy risks, data misuse, and ethical concerns.
Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, cautioned against the casual use of unverified or unofficial apps. He urged users to be vigilant in how they handle their personal data in the age of artificial intelligence.
“Cybersecurity threats aren’t new,” said Dr. Al Kuwaiti. “But as AI becomes more accessible, users need to be more aware than ever. Sharing personal photos with untrusted sources can open the door to exploitation.”
He stressed that data privacy is a shared responsibility, not just for individuals, but for institutions and developers alike. While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI tools such as ChatGPT, he emphasized understanding how data is collected, stored, and used by apps. This is especially important for apps that seem playful or artistic in nature.
“We must implement strong cybersecurity standards across all platforms,” he added. “Awareness should go beyond the app — it needs to encompass the entire digital ecosystem.”
Dr. Al Kuwaiti praised the evolution of creative AI applications. However, he warned that the same tools could be exploited for malicious purposes if users aren’t cautious.
Media and legal experts echoed these concerns. Adel Al-Rashed, Emirati journalist and member of the UAE Journalists Association, noted that the popularity of AI-generated content comes with significant risks when used irresponsibly.
“These unofficial, free-to-use apps often mimic trusted platforms, but can exploit user data,” Al-Rashed said. “They may store or share images with unknown third parties, increasing the risk of data breaches and identity theft.”
He urged users to stick with verified, secure platforms. He noted that paid versions of tools like ChatGPT — such as Pro or Teams editions — typically offer enhanced privacy features. These include options to opt out of data sharing.
As AI technologies continue to evolve at a rapid pace, officials and experts in the UAE are calling for greater public awareness and regulatory oversight. This will ensure that innovation does not come at the expense of personal privacy and digital security.
