Mexico is seeking compensation from YouTuber Mrbeast and a production company, accusing them of using the country's ancient pyramids for commercial gains.
The video "I explored ancient temples for 2000 years" and obtained permission from local authorities, showing influencers and his team exploring ancient Mayan cities.
But, having received a portion of more than 60 million views in a week, Mrbeast promoted its chocolate product as a "Maya dessert" and urged viewers to buy it.
Authorities say they do not allow for for-profit use, although they have allowed YouTubers to shoot on the website. MRBEAST representatives denied some allegations.
A YouTuber spokesman told the BBC: "There is no advertising material on any archaeological site supervised by Inah (National Institute of Anthropology and History).
In the video, the scene promoting the chocolate snack appears to be filmed at the influencer’s campground.
The spokesman also said the video was “to emphasize these precious Mayan ruins in Mexico” and “unfortunately, this has become a political issue – hopefully it can lead to effective dialogue and encourage people to visit these unique historical treasures”.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called for an investigation on Wednesday to grant a shooting permit.
In the title of the video, Mrbeast (whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson) - thanks to Mexico's tourism industry and government authorities for allowing the filming on the website, while also inserting a link to his chocolate product.
The video shows him and his team exploring restricted access areas in the cities of Karakmur and Chikin Izamaya. "I can't believe the government let us do that," he said.
It is also shown that they appear to land from the helicopter into the pyramid, and in another scene it shows an ancient Hispanic mask.
But the estate authorities said these were "false assertions" and accused YouTuber of making false information. Mrbeast never wore a real Hispanic mask and seems to have extensive post-production editing in the video - such as the Helicopter View.
"All of this is in compliance with dramatic false assertions about YouTuber," its statement on Monday said.
Mexico's Minister of Culture Claudia Curiel de Icaza said Thursday that although they have authorized MRBEAST's shooting license, they have never authorized to publish false information or use images of heritage websites for trademark advertising.
“We do not approve of any commercial pursuit that distorts the value of archaeological sites, which is the legacy of our indigenous culture and the pride of our nation,” she said.
She added that while Mexico is willing to contribute to “knowledge and spreading Mexico’s archaeological and cultural heritage,” this is firmly opposed to those who “use the will of institutions.”
Inah will consider “administrative sanctions” against production company Full Circle Media, which has obtained a film license, she said. The BBC has sought comments from the company.
Mrbeast, known as the YouTube King, is the most people on the platform with 395 million followers. His Mayan pyramid video was released on May 10.