How to Spot Deepfakes in Today's AI World

(Image credit: Matt Crisara/Midjourney)

Deepfakes are synthetic media that have been digitally altered or manipulated to make them look as if they were the original.

With the use of a certain type of artificial intelligence, one can create a video clip about Taylor Swift, for example, or Elvis Presley, saying things that are either false or something they never even said.

Before, the method of differentiating deepfakes with real media is by looking at errors made during the process of creating the deepfake. The AI used to add extra fingers when imitating people's hands. This no longer works as the system has now become more sophisticated to the point that it can replicate people with almost 100% accuracy.

So, the best way to spot deepfakes, according to experts, is not to look for discrepancies, inconsistencies, or errors. Rather, you should look at the source of the photos. For example, media outlets like the BBC, NPR, or the New York Times have rigid verification processes that ensure they don't release media that are fake.

Another method is to do a reverse image search to see where the photos or videos have been used elsewhere. This will give you an idea on the validity or credibility of the content.