Deepfake

Deepfake is a technology that uses artificial intelligence to manipulate audio and video material. This means it is possible to replace faces, for example, by sticking the head of a celebrity onto someone else's body or by manipulating someone's voice to make it seem like they are saying something else. While this technology can be interesting, deepfake is increasingly being misused for malicious purposes. 

How does deepfake technology work?

There are different ways in which deepfake technology works. One standard method is a face swap, where another replaces one face. This is done using machine learning algorithms that analyse thousands of images of both faces to replicate the movements and expressions of the original look on the replacement face.

Another method is voice manipulation, where someone else's voice is used to make it seem like they are saying something else. This is done by collecting a large amount of speech data from the person in question and using it to create new sentences. 

Finally, deepfake technology can also be used to create digital manipulation, where the content of videos is changed. This could, for example, involve changing the background or movements of people to make a different reality. 

What are the risks of deepfake?

One of the most significant risks of deepfake is that it can be used to spread fake news and deceive people. This can lead to substantial harm, such as influencing elections, manipulating public opinion, or creating panic in society.

Another risk is identity fraud, where someone pretends to be someone else using deepfake technology. This can lead to financial losses or damage to someone's reputation. 

In addition, deepfake can be used to exploit trust, for example, by creating false information or making fake videos for extortion or blackmail. 

How do you detect deepfake?

One of the methods for detecting deepfake is looking at the person's mouth and eyes in the video. There may be subtle differences between the natural and deepfake faces, such as deviations in lip or eye movements.  

Another method is to look out for deviations in voice sounds. Deepfake technology can use someone else's voice, but it cannot be easy to replicate perfectly. This can result in strange sounds or stiff intonation in the vote.

It is also possible to look for unnatural movements or glitches in the video, which may indicate that the video has been digitally manipulated. This can be done by analysing the video frames and looking for deviations between the structures that may show something is amiss.

What can we do to protect ourselves from deepfake?

Although deepfake technology can be concerning, there are steps we can take to protect ourselves from its harm:

1. Be cautious of fake news. Check sources and look for multiple confirmations of the story before accepting it as accurate.

2. Secure your personal information. Protect your privacy settings on social media, and do not share personal information with strangers.

3. Use reliable antivirus and security software. These programs can help detect and block deepfake technology and other forms of digital fraud.

4. Be alert for deviations in videos and audio. If something seems off or unnatural, investigate it further before concluding.

5. Support the development of deepfake detection technology. Many organisations are already working on developing technologies to detect and combat deepfake. By supporting these organisations, we can all protect ourselves from the harm of deepfake.