Snapchat's ephemeral messaging format, where content disappears after viewing, is frequently misunderstood as protection. In practice, Snapchat screenshots are a common mechanism for capturing and redistributing intimate content, including deepfakes. Once a screenshot is taken and shared on a secondary platform, it can be found online using ScanErase, regardless of its Snapchat origin. Snapchat is included in the scans that cover content that persists in Stories or Spotlight features.

How deepfakes spread via Snapchat

Deepfakes are shared via Snapchat Snaps, Stories, and Spotlight. Users screenshot content before it disappears and redistribute it to Reddit, Discord, Telegram, or direct messages on other platforms. Snapchat's notification of screenshots is easily bypassed through screen recording or secondary device photography.

Identifying deepfake content on Snapchat

Snapchat (operated by Snap Inc.) is a platform where deepfake content can be found. ScanErase provides users with the capability to discover where their images may appear across all Snapchat surfaces.

Handling secondary redistribution

Content that originated on Snapchat but was screenshotted and moved to secondary platforms can be tracked. ScanErase's scan identifies all locations where your content appears, regardless of origin, so you can see every match.

Frequently asked questions

If a Snap 'disappeared,' can I still discover it?

If the original Snap is no longer accessible, ScanErase can still identify any copies that were captured and redistributed to other platforms.

Can I find out who took a screenshot of a Snap?

Snapchat logs screenshot notifications. Law enforcement can subpoena Snapchat for account information about who took a screenshot. ScanErase finds where your face appears, while law enforcement handles the identification of perpetrators.

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