Man Charged for Using AI and Bots to Earn $10 Million in Streaming Royalties

North Carolina's Michael Smith allegedly created fake bands and songs, manipulating streaming platforms for fraudulent income over seven years.

Smith faces charges of wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy, each carrying up to 20 years in prison.
He allegedly used AI to generate songs and bots to stream them billions of times, earning substantial royalties.
The scheme involved platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music.
Smith reportedly collaborated with a music promoter and an AI music firm CEO to execute the plan.
Despite occasional flagging by platforms, much of the AI-generated music remains accessible.