Taylor Swift has taken legal steps to protect her identity as concerns over artificial intelligence-generated deepfakes grow. Her company filed three trademark applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, targeting an image of her performing and the phrases “Hey, it’s Taylor Swift” and “Hey, it’s Taylor.”
The move comes as AI tools become increasingly capable of creating convincing fake audio and video of public figures. Swift's filings aim to prevent unauthorized commercial use of her likeness and vocal signature, especially in scams, impersonations, or non-consensual content.
Experts note that trademarking such elements could give Swift stronger legal grounds to take down deepfake videos or demand compensation if her image or voice is misused. While copyright law already protects against unauthorized reproductions, trademarks cover commercial branding—potentially allowing Swift to block fake endorsements or digital replicas that confuse fans.
This proactive stance mirrors growing industry and legislative attention to AI-generated impersonations. In 2023, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission proposed rules to crack down on AI deepfakes that imitate real people. Swift’s trademark applications signal that high-profile individuals are now seeking to shield their identities in the age of generative AI.