Michael Smith guilty plea in streaming royalty fraud case

Law Enforcement

First reported

20.03.2026 11:33

Last updated

20.03.2026 11:33

Happening score

H score 17

1 unique sources, 1 articles

Summary

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Michael Smith pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in a streaming royalty fraud case that diverted more than $10 million in royalty payments. The scheme used AI-generated songs, bot accounts, and VPNs to inflate plays on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. He agreed to forfeit $8,091,843.64 and faces up to 5 years in prison.

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Timeline

20.03.2026 11:33 2 articles · 2mo ago

Michael Smith guilty plea in streaming royalty fraud case

Initial Disclosure
Federal prosecutors secured a guilty plea from **Michael Smith** in a **streaming royalty fraud** case built on fake plays and diverted royalties. The matter now moves toward sentencing after the **September 2024** charge.
Show sources

Musician admits to $10M streaming royalty fraud using AI bots — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 20.03.2026 11:33

Musician admits to $10M streaming royalty fraud using AI bots — www.bleepingcomputer.com — 20.03.2026 11:33
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