AI washing, similar to greenwashing, involves companies exaggerating the capabilities of their products or services labeled as ‘AI’ to appear more sophisticated and innovative than they actually are. This practice has become widespread as companies seek to capitalize on the excitement surrounding AI, leading to inflated expectations, stifled innovation, and eroded consumer trust. Examples of AI washing include labeling home appliances as ‘smart’ despite limited autonomous capabilities, promoting content creation tools that require significant human input, and misrepresenting the use of AI in investment strategies. To spot AI washing, consumers and investors should develop a skeptical mindset, seek out specific technical details, and beware of companies that fail to provide transparent explanations of their technology.