Deepfake Technology Raises Concerns as Fake Videos Go Viral
Image Source: Hindustan Times
In the wake of a viral video featuring a false appearance by actress Rashmika Mandanna, the spotlight is once again on the unsettling world of AI deepfakes. This rapidly advancing technology has the potential to convincingly mimic individuals in videos, giving rise to concerns about the spread of deceptive content. In this article, we delve into AI-based deepfake technology, shedding light on what they truly are and some tips on how to safeguard yourself in an era where digital impersonation is on the rise.
What is AI deepfake?
AI deepfakes are a form of digital manipulation that uses artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to create highly convincing fake content, which can be in the form of images, videos, or audio recordings. These fake media are designed to appear as if they were created by or feature real individuals when, in fact, they are entirely fake.
Deepfake creators begin by gathering a substantial amount of data about the target individual, via social media and other platforms. After this, AI technology is used to analyze and learn from the collected data. They identify and map facial features, expressions, voice patterns, and other characteristics specific to the target person. It can then manipulate or impose this reconstructed data onto other individuals or bodies in videos or images.
This AI tech has raised concerns because it can be used for deceptive purposes, such as spreading misinformation, creating fake news, or impersonating individuals. As a result, there is growing interest in developing tools and regulations to detect and mitigate the potential harms associated with this technology.
AI deepfakes: How to be safe?
One should limit the amount of personal information they share online to reduce the data available for creating deepfakes. To enhance your personal security, it’s recommended to refrain from publicly sharing your photos or videos that could be utilized for generating deepfakes. For now, people who are worried about their personal data (being out on social media platforms) should consider changing their Instagram account to private instead of keeping it public.
If yours is a Business account, then you can also archive (hide) your personal images or videos on Instagram in the settings. Additionally, it is better to protect your online accounts with strong and unique passwords. It is better to be on high alert about what you are sharing publicly until the government takes some legal and regulatory measures to combat the spread of fake content on the internet.
How is AI deepfake tricking you?
In a recent incident in July 2023, a retired government employee from Kerala, lost Rs 40,000 in a scam where AI was used to impersonate his friend. The fraudster not only mimicked his friend’s voice but also video-called him, replicating his colleague’s appearance to gain trust and solicit money. Similarly, a Chinese individual fell victim to a Rs 5 crore deepfake scam, sending funds to an impostor posing as a friend.
Meanwhile, actress Rashmika Mandanna became the latest target of a viral deepfake video depicting her in an elevator. This event prompted calls for enhanced legal and regulatory measures to combat the proliferation of fake content online. The video initially surfaced on Instagram, featuring an unrelated individual named Zara Patel, raising questions about its origins and motives. This episode is part of a broader trend where various celebrities have fallen prey to similar deceptive videos in recent years.
Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan underscored the urgency of legal action against deepfakes, emphasizing the necessity for measures to counter the expanding threat posed by AI-generated deception.
In conclusion, AI deepfake technology is a growing concern as it can be used to create highly convincing fake content. It’s crucial to be cautious about the information you share online to protect yourself from potential misuse of your data. As this technology continues to advance, the need for legal and regulatory measures becomes increasingly apparent to combat the proliferation of fake content and deception
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- News Writer
- Harshit Tokas is a Political Science and International Affairs Post-Graduate with a passion for understanding and analyzing complex political landscapes. Skilled in research, data analysis, and policy development. Eager to contribute his knowledge and insights to drive positive change.
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