Technology company itel has issued a warning that it may pursue legal action against individuals who use artificial intelligence-generated images or other fabricated materials to spread false claims about its products. The warning follows the circulation of an AI-generated image on social media that purported to show an itel Power Tank portable power station exploding.
Viral Image Sparks Company Response
The image was accompanied by a claim that the device had exploded after allegedly being overcharged. However, itel stated that the image did not depict a real incident and described the content as fabricated. The company emphasized that it welcomes genuine customer feedback and constructive criticism but would act against deliberate attempts to damage its reputation through manipulated content.
In an official disclaimer posted on X on Wednesday, itel said: "At itel, we value our customers and appreciate every form of constructive criticism and feedback. Your opinions help us improve, and we remain committed to listening and addressing genuine concerns." The company added that it would not "stand by" while AI-generated images or misleading materials were used to spread false information, discredit the company, or deliberately damage its reputation.
User Deletes Post and Apologizes
The controversy began after an X user identified as Enori shared the AI-generated image and claimed that an itel Power Tank had exploded. The post attracted significant attention on social media before the user deleted it and issued an apology. In the apology, Enori acknowledged that both the image and the scenario were AI-generated and that the claim was not true. The user also accepted responsibility for the misinformation and confusion caused by the post.
Following the incident, itel Energy and related accounts cautioned social media users against circulating the fabricated material, maintaining that the viral image did not show an actual explosion involving its Power Tank.
Misinformation Risks Highlighted
The incident underscores the growing challenge facing companies and consumers as increasingly realistic AI-generated images make it more difficult to distinguish genuine product incidents from fabricated ones. False claims involving product safety can spread quickly on social media, potentially causing reputational damage and misleading consumers before the authenticity of the material is established.
itel markets the Power Tank as a portable power station designed to provide backup electricity during power outages. According to the company's product information, the line uses lithium iron phosphate batteries and incorporates safety systems designed to protect against conditions including excessive temperature, voltage, overload, and short circuits.
In a related development, Legit.ng earlier reported that two women were arraigned before the Federal High Court in Lagos over an alleged false social media publication claiming that Access Bank Plc would shut down its banking operations from September 23, 2026. The Force Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon Annex, Ikoyi, arraigned Idorenyin Samuel Umoh and Fineness Monday Esu before Justice Akintayo Aluko on a three-count charge marked FHC/L/CR/773/2026.
