Indie game publisher Finji, known for titles like Night in the Woods and Tunic, has publicly alleged that TikTok is using its characters and artwork without permission to run offensive ads "enhanced" with generative AI. CEO Rebekah Saltsman raised the issue in a social media post, asking followers to send screenshots of any suspicious ads.
According to reports, fans have provided Finji with examples of these AI-altered ads. In one instance, the lead character of Finji's upcoming game, a Black woman, was transformed into a sexualized, racist caricature through AI modifications. Finji confirms it runs ads on TikTok but states it does not use generative AI in its own campaigns.
When Finji contacted TikTok Ads Support, the initial response claimed no AI-generated assets were detected. After being shown screenshots, support reportedly acknowledged the issue and promised escalation to a senior representative. However, subsequent communications indicated Finji would not be contacted by higher authority and was instead offered an option to opt out of an unspecified "initiative" aimed at helping advertisers.
Saltsman expressed frustration, stating the situation combines problematic algorithms, non-consensual use of partner content, and an incoherent response from the platform. She questioned TikTok's business sense in mistreating a paying partner.