Since the first example in 2017, deepfake technology has been advancing at an alarming rate. Although this technology can create entertaining content, it also poses serious dangers. When anyone can create highly realistic videos or images using readily available AI software, how can you know what’s real and what’s fake? In this final installment of the Crime Prevention Month series, learn the applications and dangers of this technology, and, more importantly how to spot it—so you don’t become a victim.
Celebrities and politicians as targets
DeepTomCruise (pictured) — This TikTok account creates incredibly realistic deepfakes of Tom Cruise, featuring him in various humorous scenarios. The videos fooled millions of viewers due to the uncanny likeness.
President Obama on the dangers of fake news — To raise awareness about deepfake dangers, BuzzFeed created a video of President Obama seemingly delivering a warning about fake news. In reality, it was comedian Jordan Peele’s voice synced with a deepfake of Obama’s face.
Ukranian president “surrenders” to Russia — In 2022, a deepfake of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy surfaced, falsely depicting him surrendering to Russia during the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Although poorly executed and quickly debunked, it demonstrated how deepfakes could be weaponized to spread misinformation and influence public opinion in times of crisis.
But… What’s the Danger to Regular People?
- Identity Theft and Fraud: Deepfake videos or audio clips of an individual can impersonate them to trick banks, employers, or family members into transferring money or sharing sensitive information.
- Revenge Porn: Malicious actors can use deepfake technology to place a person’s face on explicit content, often to blackmail or publicly humiliate them, which can have devastating personal and social impacts.
- Misinformation and Slander: Deepfakes can create false statements or actions that appear to come from a targeted person, harming reputations, disrupting relationships, or damaging careers.
- Phishing Scams: Deepfake audio or video calls that mimic someone a victim knows and trusts, like a friend or family member, can manipulate individuals into revealing private information or performing actions they wouldn’t otherwise do.
- Cyberbullying and Harassment: By creating and sharing deepfake content that mocks or misrepresents a person, harassers can use this technology to bully or coerce, causing emotional harm or social isolation.
How can you Spot a Deepfake?
- Look for Facial Inconsistencies
Often, deepfakes struggle with fine facial details like blinking, natural skin texture, and mouth movements when speaking. Watch for unnatural eye movement, irregular blinking patterns, or overly smooth skin—all potential signs of a fake. - Check for Strange Lighting and Shadows
Deepfakes may not always accurately reflect lighting on a face or body, causing strange shadows or mismatched lighting. If the lighting on the face doesn’t match the background, or if shadows seem misplaced, it could be a deepfake. - Observe Background Details
Because deepfakes focus on altering the face or voice, backgrounds or peripheral details may appear distorted or inconsistent. If elements behind or around the person seem blurry, disjointed, or mismatched, it might indicate digital manipulation. - Listen for Audio Irregularities
Deepfake audio can sound unnatural, with choppy pacing or a lack of inflection. Pay attention to abrupt voice shifts or odd speech patterns that don’t match the person’s usual tone or cadence, as this can reveal artificial audio generation. - Use Deepfake Detection Tools
As deepfake technology advances, so do detection tools. Software like Microsoft’s Video Authenticator or websites like Sensity provide ways to analyze videos and images, helping detect potential alterations before misinformation spreads.
Deepfakes in Fiction
Though dramatized, deepfakes in books, TV, and movies show the possibilities of the ever-advancing technology. Prepare to be freaked the f!$* out.
Please note, this post contains affiliate links. Learn more »
