---
title: "AI, IP and a Brilliant PR Stunt: Why It’s Time to Wake Up"
description: "Studio Ghibli’s fake legal threat sparked an internet storm — but it also exposed a real issue: How companies must urgently prepare their teams for AI and IP challenges ahead."
---

[Digital Change ](https://blog.bloola.com/digital-change)

# [AI, IP and a Brilliant PR Stunt: Why It’s Time to Wake Up](https://blog.bloola.com/digital-change/ai-ip-and-a-brilliant-pr-stunt-why-its-time-to-wake-up)

 Written by [Lars-Thorsten Sudmann](https://blog.bloola.com/digital-change/author/lars-thorsten-sudmann) | Apr 4, 2025 5:15:00 AM

 

## **1. AI is No Longer a Toy – It Just Got Serious**

A single tweet recently sent shockwaves through the creative community: The iconic Studio Ghibli is allegedly sending cease-and-desist letters. The target? An app named **Gib**, which transforms photos into animations styled like classic Ghibli films.

The accusations? **Style theft, trademark infringement, copyright violation**.

Ghibli threatens legal action, damages, and removal from app stores.

The internet went wild. And that was exactly the plan.

>  

 

## **2. Plot Twist: It Was a PR Stunt – and a Brilliant One**

Shortly after the hype, the reveal came: **No lawyers involved. No real case.**

It was a **calculated PR move** by **gib studio** and **@tj_littlejohn**.

But why did it work so well? Because it hit a raw nerve: **Who owns a style?**

>  

## **3. The Real Question: Who Owns a Style?**

The Ghibli style is unmistakable. But can a *style* even be copyrighted?

When does homage turn into theft? AI tools can now mimic any artistic fingerprint within seconds — and that challenges the foundation of the creative industry.

Some call it an **IP revolution**. Others call it the **Wild West of AI**.

>  

## **4. Why We Must Have This Debate NOW**

So far, it was just a PR stunt. But the **real letters are coming**.

And most companies? **Not ready at all.**

Employees unknowingly cause damage:

- Sensitive data gets fed into open AI tools
- Internal files uploaded to public chatbots
- Uncertified AI platforms automate critical workflows

The result? Data leaks, legal risk, and brand damage.

>  

## **5. So How Should You Train Your Team?**

Do they need to binge YouTube or take costly certifications?

**Absolutely not.**

What’s needed is a **basic understanding** for everyone working with data, clients, or software.

The **EU AI Act** already requires companies to **train their employees** when using AI systems — including common tools like Microsoft Copilot in Outlook or Teams.

## **6. The Solution: Focused Training Over Fear**

When your team is trained, there’s no reason to fear AI — only opportunities to embrace.

Platforms like [**bloo.school**](https://bloo.school/) offer clear, foundational courses that help teams understand what’s safe, what’s smart, and what’s next.

>  

## **7. Your Move: Is Your Team Ready?**

Ask yourself:

- Who in your company interacts with AI?
- Are they trained in copyright, data protection, and responsible AI use?
- Are you using AI responsibly — or just experimenting?

If you’re unsure, it’s time to act.

Because while you’re hesitating, **your competitors are gaining ground** with AI — increasing automation, improving customer experience, and expanding market share.

>  

[View full post](https://blog.bloola.com/digital-change/ai-ip-and-a-brilliant-pr-stunt-why-its-time-to-wake-up)

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