Using Critical Digital Literacy Skills to Evaluate Online Information Related to the Internet Safety Topic of Deep Fakes

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Imagine receiving a video call from your friends and they suddenly ask for a large amount of money immediately because they said that they are having trouble. The voice sounds exactly like theirs—calm, authoritative, and unmistakably familiar with their exact faces and bodies.

But what if that video wasn't real? 

Welcome to the unsettling world of video deepfakes, where artificial intelligence can mimic voices and images with strange precision, blurring the lines between reality and deception.



What is video deepfake?

Deepfakes are fake videos created using digital software, machine learning and face swapping.

Deepfakes are computer-created artificial videos in which images are combined to create new footage that depicts events, statements or actions that never actually happened. (source)
And the results can be quite convincing. 

What are the effects of video deepfake on everybody?

Typically, deepfakes are used to purposefully spread false information or they may have a malicious intent behind their use. They can be designed to harass, intimidate, demean and undermine people. Deepfakes can also create misinformation and confusion about important issues.

Further, deepfake technology can fuel other unethical actions like creating revenge porn, where women are disproportionately harmed.

Deepfakes and false information can create an overall feeling of distrust and apathy among individuals. 
If everything is phoney, people may believe that nothing is real anymore.
This could reduce faith in information and media, which would cause widespread scepticism.

Moreover, the ease with which false memories can be implanted in people's minds is a major worry. Studies have shown that people may form false memories after seeing fabricated news stories, especially if those stories align with their political beliefs. (source)

And deepfake has so many more adverse impacts.


How can we spot fake videos?

To spot a fake video, you can look for the following signs

- Inconsistencies: Check for inconsistencies in the video, such as sudden changes in lighting, shadows, or background details.

- Unnatural Movements: Look for unnatural movements or glitches in the video, especially around the face or body of the people in the video.

Audio Mismatch: Pay attention to any mismatch between the audio and the video. If the audio doesn't sync properly with the visuals, it could be a sign of manipulation.

Context: Consider the context of the video. If the content seems too good to be true or highly controversial, it's worth verifying its authenticity.

Source: Verify the original source of the video. If it's from an unreliable or unverified source, it's important to be cautious.

Use of Technology: Advanced video editing tools and deepfake technology can create highly realistic fake videos. Look for any signs of advanced editing techniques.

Consult Experts: If you have doubts about a video's authenticity, consult experts or fact-checking organizations to verify its credibility.

What should we do if we see a deepfake?

If you spot a deepfake, stop spreading it right away. You may believe that you can show your friends an example of a deepfake, but remember that once shared, anything often takes on a life of its own.

Furthermore, if you become involved in a deepfake, you should immediately consult a lawyer who is familiar with media and associated legislation. Even if a photo or video appears to be made for "fun," it is still illegal if it was created without your knowledge or consent.




Link Youtube: https://youtu.be/4UmKPbBlHRQ?feature=shared






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