Michael Smith In FBI Custody For Using Bot Streams To Generate $10m In Royalties

Michael Smith, an American musician, was detained by the FBI for receiving $10 million in royalties via bot streams.

He was charged with fraudulently streaming music billions of times through the use of artificial intelligence (AI), tools, and bots.

Three counts each of wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to launder money are brought against Michael Smith.

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The Justice Department in a news release, explained that each offense carries a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment.

“As alleged, Michael Smith fraudulently streamed songs created with artificial intelligence billions of times to steal royalties.”

Damian Williams, U.S. Attorney in the release, said, “Through his brazen fraud scheme, Smith stole millions in royalties that should have been paid to other rights holders whose songs were legitimately streamed.

“Thanks to the FBI and the career prosecutors of this Office, it’s time for Smith to face the music.”