A viral image claiming to show a real megalodon from the 1900s has surfaced on social media, but experts clarify that these prehistoric sharks went extinct millions of years ago.

In late 2024, social media buzzed with claims of a photograph depicting a real megalodon, reigniting public fascination with this gigantic ancient shark species. Scientists widely agree that megalodons roamed the oceans over 3.6 million years ago, making the idea of a surviving specimen both improbable and impossible. This incident highlights the critical need for digital literacy in discerning fact from viral fiction in today’s online landscape.

The image in question, which originated from a black-and-white photograph, was mistakenly attributed to being taken in the 1900s. Experts have debunked this claim, emphasizing that the megalodon's extinction occurred long before the advent of modern photography, invalidating any assertion of a real megalodon picture from that era. The misconception surrounding this image underscores the power of misinformation on social platforms and the ease with which it can spread, often unchecked.

As artificial intelligence technologies rapidly advance, they play a significant role in both the creation and detection of such digital content. Machine learning algorithms are being developed that can assess the authenticity of images and texts, potentially curbing the flow of misinformation. The conversation around these capabilities is essential as they tie into broader discussions about trust in digital mediums and the ongoing impact of AI innovations on our perception of reality.