(MENAFN) Japan is confronting the rapid spread of AI-generated fake videos online, alongside interruptions to essential services, as real bear attacks across the country continue to rise.

As public fear grows, fabricated clips showing aggressive bears are circulating widely on TikTok, YouTube, and other social media platforms, according to a news agency.

One AI-created video depicts a group of bears destroying solar panels at a facility, while another shows a bear grabbing a pet dog. Experts caution that although the footage is clearly fabricated, such videos can easily mislead viewers when mixed with authentic content.

"Along with increasing news reports of the damage caused by bear attacks, the number of fake bear videos have also increased," said Daisuke Furuta, chief editor of the Japan Fact-Check Center.

This year, at least 14 people have died in confirmed or suspected bear-related incidents, with dozens more injured. On Sunday alone, five people were attacked across three prefectures.

In response to safety concerns, Japan Post Co. announced last Wednesday that postal services might be suspended to protect employees. The following day, operations were halted in part of Akita Prefecture, a region with frequent bear sightings and attacks.

A major telecommunications company in Japan also stated it would review safety protocols for workers operating in mountainous areas where bear encounters are common.

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