The 27-year-old star is said to be extremely unhappy that her image is being used a part of the 'thinspiration' websites aimed at helping girls to lose weight.
A source said to UK newspaper Daily Star: 'Cheryl has had her ups and downs and they have affected her weight. But when she heard young girls were holding her up as a way to starve themselves she freaked out.
'She'd hate people to think she starves herself. She is just naturally small and eats exactly what she wants.'
Videos uploaded to YouTube of Cole have attracted comments such as 'she's the best thins around'.
Another fan wrote: 'Give me the strength to achieve perfection like Cheryl Cole. She is totally my thins.'