DuckDuckGo Now Lets You Block AI-Generated Images in Search
As AI-generated content floods the internet, many users are growing frustrated with what some call “AI slop” — low-effort or misleading content created by artificial intelligence. In response, DuckDuckGo has introduced a new feature that allows users to block AI-generated images directly in search results.
Why This Matters
With the rise of generative AI tools, fake or AI-created images are now common across search engines. These can include synthetic product images, fabricated people, or visuals used in clickbait content. While some of these images may be helpful, others clutter the web and reduce trust in what users see.
DuckDuckGo’s solution is simple: a new “AI-generated images” filter is now available in image search settings. Users can toggle this on to exclude known AI-generated visuals, making it easier to find real photos and graphics.
How It Works
The search engine relies on a mix of metadata, image markers, and partnerships with content platforms to identify and filter AI images. Although detection isn’t perfect, the filter significantly reduces the number of synthetic visuals shown in image search results.
This move comes as part of DuckDuckGo’s larger effort to provide more private, transparent, and user-controlled search experiences — distinguishing it from competitors like Google and Bing, which continue to integrate AI more aggressively.
Growing Backlash Against “AI Slop”
Online communities, especially on platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), have coined the term “AI slop” to describe the overwhelming amount of auto-generated content. Users say it pollutes search results, weakens content quality, and creates confusion around what’s real and what’s not.
DuckDuckGo’s image-blocking option offers a first step in giving power back to users who want more control over their visual search results.