What are Deep Fakes?
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They are a subfield of AI that allow realistic forgeries of both video and audio.
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The speed of advances in AI have made it possible to create Deep Fakes using freely available software and computer processing power that can be rented.
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AI is perhaps the most transformative technology under development. Consequently, it also brings about entirely new risks.
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Examples:
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Roadrunner: A documentary on the late chef Anthony Bourdain showcases the extraordinary advances of artificial intelligence (AI).
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It uses Deep Fake technology to show Bourdain mouthing words he never uttered. The documentary is a wake-up call on potential side effects of AI if it is used with malicious intentions.
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The U.S has been a persistent victim of deep fakes and ransomware attacks, the latest one being the hacking of a critical oil pipeline on the eastern side.
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Risks posed by Deep Fakes:
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Deep Fakes pose a fundamental danger. They can quickly undermine trust, the invisible bond that holds many collectives together.
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There are many examples of Deep Fakes being used by state actors to influence elections and sow seeds of discord.
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The US has been a victim of Deep Fakes. Even in India, Deep Fakes are known to have been circulated in some electoral contests.
Way Ahead:
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AI’s rapid upgrades, coupled with a transition to digital modes of governance, calls for a new level of safeguards on the part of the Government of India.
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The Government of India needs to adopt a proactive approach against deep fakes like the U.S government. It should invest in talent and technology to cripple hackers’ cyber infrastructure.