The impact of deepfake technology
As the world advances with technology, the daily lives of people are becoming more intertwined with both beneficial and harmful practices.
KATHMANDU: In today’s rapidly evolving global tech market, certain incidents are becoming increasingly viral, particularly those involving the manipulation of photos and videos by swapping faces or cloning activities within closed circuits.
As the world advances with technology, the daily lives of people are becoming more intertwined with both beneficial and harmful practices. These developments are closely related to the emerging field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
One of the most concerning aspects of AI technology is the creation of unnatural and factually incorrect photos and videos through a process known as deepfakes—a term that combines “deep learning” and “fake.” This technology utilizes artificial neural networks and machine learning to fabricate highly realistic but entirely false content.
Deepfakes are generated through two key algorithms: the generator and the discriminator. The generator creates the fake content, while the discriminator evaluates its authenticity.
The goal is to produce fake photos or videos that are indistinguishable from real ones. With the help of deep learning, these algorithms work together to create content that mimics reality. Tools like FaceSwap, DeepFaceLab, Zao, Avtarify, Reface, and Synthesia are prime examples of this technology.
Deepfakes can operate in two primary ways. First, they can mimic the gestures and expressions of a real person in a video, syncing them with fabricated speech. Second, they can perform a “face swap,” superimposing one person’s face onto another’s body. This process also includes matching lip movements with altered audio to create a seamless illusion.
As technology becomes more advanced, it also poses significant risks to human society. It is crucial for people in countries like ours, where familiarity with advanced technology is still growing, to understand these dangers.
The impact of deepfake technology on high-ranking officials can be particularly severe, potentially leading to national crises. For example, during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, a deepfake video of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urging his troops to surrender went viral. Imagine the catastrophic consequences this could have had for Ukraine during a time of war.
Similarly, a deepfake video of U.S. leader Vladimir Putin allegedly warning about threats to democracy could have profoundly influenced U.S. foreign policy. Such incidents highlight how misinformation can lead to real-world consequences.
Over time, the spread of deepfake technology has the potential to undermine genuine photo and video evidence, casting doubt on real events.
Given the current trajectory, there is no doubt that the misuse of this technology could pose a significant threat to global peace and human society.
Author Ganesh Bhandari BCA- 8th Semester RR Campus
