The recent event of fake images of Taylor Swift being spread on internet has again brought the attention on media and tech geeks to the potential misuse of AI, and the fear of AI disrupting our day-to-day activities has unveiled. Recently some explicit photos of Taylor Swift, made using Deepfake, broke the internet which has fueled the debate of good and bad AI.
What are deepfakes?
Deepfakes are synthetic media (images, videos, audio etc.…) created using deep learning. Deepfake algorithms are capable of swapping faces and voices with very realistic results. This depicts the advancements of deep learning algorithms and its ability to manipulate digital content.
These technologies are used by digital marketing teams and individuals to create virtual models and influencers. Although still controversial, it is rapidly gaining popularity.
However, it is also being misused for spreading misinformation, perpetrating fraud and blackmailing. The limits to what can be created, and the creativity of its use is being exploited.
How to keep ourselves safe?
Deepfakes deceive viewers into believing fabricated content as real. Although efforts to detect deepfakes and control its misuse are raising awareness about its existence, social media users should take precautions and be skeptical about anything without proper background checks. One would also need to protect his/her privacy.
Preventing the negative impacts and improving social media will require efforts from various stakeholder. Technological solutions like detection algorithms and source verification should be put in place. Legislation and platform policies need to take collaborative measures to regulate creation, distribution and use of such content.
Even with all this in place the audience should be educated and should device skepticism with consuming media online.
Be aware, Be Safe!!