Overview

• CBC’s Visual Investigations team linked the fictional ‘Josh’ persona to AI firm Nexa, which used Google’s Veo3 video software to create the clips
• The videos featured a white male avatar blaming Indian immigrants for blocking Canadian job opportunities and citing a failed Tim Hortons application
• Nexa founder Divy Nayyar defended the campaign as a playful engagement tactic aimed at young job seekers
• Marketing experts warn that ‘fake-fluencing’ with hyperreal AI avatars risks spreading misinformation and fueling online hate
• Policymakers and industry groups are renewing calls for clearer AI-disclosure rules and stronger moderation tools on social platforms