How to spot a deepfake

What is a deepfake?

Deepfakes are realistic videos, photos or audio content created by deep learning – a form of artificial intelligence (AI). Deep learning collects data on facial features, voices and movement and processes that data to create fake content which imitates a real person. 

The technology has been around for a while but is now available to more people, meaning more deepfake content is spreading online, particularly across social media.

The danger of deepfakes

It can be hard to tell a deepfake from the real thing. These manipulated images or videos of real people can be used to spread false information. Deepfakes have been used to create fake news, usually using the faces of politicians and celebrities.

Keeping it real: how to spot a deepfake

Regulations for deepfakes are not keeping pace with AI advancements, so it’s important to analyse media and look for signs that it may be a deepfake.

Look for:

• Blurring or shadows – especially around the mouth, eyes and neck
• Unnatural skin tone or discoloration
• Glitches in video or changes in the lighting or background
• Badly synced sound
• Irregular blinking or movement that seems unnatural

If in doubt, question the context. Ask yourself if you would expect that person to say or do what they are shown to be saying or doing, in that place, at that time.

See this example below and pay close attention to the badly synced sound.

Diabetes deepfakes

Diabetes Victoria encourages everyone to carefully consider all media about diabetes, particularly content posted on social media. Misinformation about diabetes management and alternative therapies can be serious and damaging. Always cross-check with a reliable source, including the Diabetes Victoria website or speak to an expert on your healthcare team if you’re not sure. Importantly, before making any changes to your medication or diabetes management, please speak to your healthcare professional.

Read more about deepfake videos promoting diabetes supplements.