AI-generated images of celebrities like Katy Perry and Rihanna at the Met Gala went viral, sparking concerns about the spread of deepfake technology online. Deepfakes use artificial intelligence to swap faces in videos and pictures, creating realistic-looking fake media. While some deepfakes are made for comedic purposes, others are created for malicious reasons, such as revenge porn or political manipulation. In 2019, 96% of all deepfake videos found online were pornography, highlighting the potential dangers of this technology.
The creation of deepfakes can be traced back to a Reddit user named “Deepfake,” who posted fake pornography in 2017 by swapping the faces of celebrities with adult film stars. Since then, political figures have also become victims of deepfakes, with fake videos circulating that show them saying or doing things they never actually did. Detecting deepfakes can be challenging, but there are signs to look out for, such as oddities in the images or videos, strange eye movements, and discrepancies in audio-video quality.
The recent fake images of Katy Perry and Rihanna at the Met Gala demonstrate how easily deepfakes can be spread online and fool unsuspecting viewers. While Perry shared the AI-generated images on social media with humorous captions, it is essential for users to be cautious and skeptical of the content they see online. Various tools and resources are available to help users sharpen their skills in spotting deepfakes and verifying the authenticity of media they encounter.
In a related story, the Republican National Committee used AI-generated images in a rebuttal campaign video against President Joe Biden, portraying an apocalyptic scenario if he were to win reelection. The use of deepfakes in political campaigns raises concerns about the manipulation of public perception and the spread of disinformation. Both political parties have utilized deepfake technology to criticize their opponents, highlighting the need for increased awareness and vigilance in the digital age.
As deepfake technology continues to advance, it is crucial for individuals to educate themselves on how to identify and combat the spread of fake media. By staying informed and vigilant, users can help mitigate the potential harm caused by deepfakes and protect themselves from deception. The rise of deepfakes serves as a reminder of the importance of media literacy in the digital age and the need for critical thinking when consuming content online.
