Deepfakes

Explained by Common Craft
Today, we can’t be sure if the videos, audio, or images we see online are real or fake. Thanks to AI and powerful computers, it’s now possible to create media that looks and sounds like the real thing but is fake and designed to fool you. Learn what you can do to stay safe online.
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Video Transcript:

Imagine a parent receiving a phone call that sounds exactly like you. Your voice says that you've had an accident, and you need them to send money immediately. Everyone is worried and follows the instructions. The problem is that it's not you. It's a scam to steal money. 

Using powerful computers and software, it's now possible to create audio or video versions of you that can even fool your loved ones. Or imagine seeing a digital photo of your friend doing something unexpected or a video of your favorite artist saying something completely out of character. These are examples of deepfakes, a term that comes from deep learning and fakes. They are computer generated versions of people that look and sound like the real thing, but are not real. 

Deepfakes are a growing threat that everyone should know about. Here's how it works. Deepfake creators use existing videos and images of a person to create a fake version that looks, sounds, and moves like the real person. 

The risks are real. In politics, leaders may appear to say things that go against their policies or advocate for harmful actions. In other cases, deepfakes can ruin reputations and cause chaos when the public sees and shares them. 

If you're concerned about deepfakes being made of you, consider what you share online. Deepfake creators need a starting point, like a video of you talking. Keep your computer updated and use two factor authentication to prevent intruders from accessing your media. 

Also, consider creating a secret code word that you share with loved ones that only they know. This way, if they get a suspicious call asking for money, they can ask for a secret word to ensure it's you. 

As an internet user, awareness is important. We can no longer assume that every video or image is one hundred percent real, and there are no easy ways to tell the difference. Solutions may be on the way, and there is growing momentum to make deepfakes illegal. 

For now, they are a reality of using the Internet. It's best to remain skeptical of online videos that are surprising or controversial. If something seems unrealistic, don't share it. Look up the subject of the video to see if it's been deemed real or fake. Keep in mind that deepfakes aren't all bad. They are a technology that can be used for visual effects in movies, voice translations, more efficient media production, and more. 

However, many deepfake creators want to fool you. They wanna change your mind, manipulate your beliefs, and steal your money. You and your loved ones can stay safer online by being aware of their tactics, skeptical of surprising videos, and using smart security practices.

 

What it teaches:

This video explains the concept of deepfakes and how they are used to change minds, manipulate beliefs, and steal money. It teaches:

  • How a deepfake attack works
  • Why deepfakes exist
  • How deepfakes are made
  • What you can do to stay safe
  • The risks of sharing deepfakes

Video Info:

  • Duration:  03m 00s
  • Captions Available:  YES
  • Lesson Plan:  NO
  • Category:  Net Safety
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