A series of digitally manipulated images falsely depicting former United States President Donald Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein and children have circulated widely on social media in recent days, prompting fact-checks and public clarifications.
The images, shared with the hashtag #EpsteinFiles, emerged amid renewed online discussion following the United States Department of Justice’s release of a large volume of documents related to Epstein on January 30.
Origin of the Manipulated Images
Independent researchers and social media users have established that the viral images were generated using artificial intelligence tools. The altered visuals were traced back to authentic photographs from the 1990s.
One image originated from a 1997 Victoria’s Secret event photograph, while another came from a 1990s Mar-a-Lago gathering that featured adult models. In both cases, the original images did not include children.
Analysts confirmed that children were digitally added later using AI-based image manipulation techniques.
Context of the Epstein Files
The manipulated images surfaced shortly after the Justice Department released over three million pages of Epstein-related records. These documents include flight logs, contact lists, and social references spanning several years.
Donald Trump’s name appears multiple times in these records, primarily in social mentions and travel-related documents. However, officials and media reviews have found no evidence linking Trump to criminal wrongdoing in the released materials.
Online Fact-Checking Efforts
Several users and fact-checking groups shared side-by-side comparisons of the original photographs and the manipulated versions to demonstrate how the images had been altered.
These comparisons highlighted discrepancies in lighting, proportions, and background elements, reinforcing conclusions that the images were not authentic.
No child deserves this 💔 #EpsteinFiles pic.twitter.com/R9dqyOUxt6
— Hinduism_and_Science (@Hinduism_sci) February 3, 2026
Historical Record
Public records and court documents show that Trump and Epstein were socially acquainted in the 1990s. However, Trump later barred Epstein from Mar-a-Lago around 2007, according to multiple media reports.
Legal filings from Epstein-related cases also indicate that Trump cooperated with attorneys representing victims when requested.
Concerns Over AI-Driven Misinformation
Experts warn that AI-generated imagery poses growing challenges for information integrity, particularly when high-profile figures and sensitive criminal cases are involved.
Misinformation of this nature, they note, can distort public understanding and undermine legitimate scrutiny of documented evidence.
Current Status
As of now, no credible investigative body has authenticated the viral images. Social media platforms have begun flagging some of the posts as misleading.
Authorities and media organisations continue to urge users to verify sources and avoid sharing unverified material related to ongoing legal matters.
