Spotting Artificial Intelligence-Generated Content: Stay Alert and Informed In our rapidly advancing technological world, it’s becoming increasingly common to come across fake images and videos of celebrities, politicians, and other public figures. While these AI-generated videos often serve comedic purposes, they can also be misused to scam people or spread false information. It’s crucial to be aware of this issue and learn how to identify AI-generated content to protect ourselves and others from potential harm. An incident in November 2023 served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by AI-generated content. A sponsored video on TikTok claimed to feature celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay endorsing a cookware promotion, but it was later revealed that the person in the video was not Ramsay himself. Instead, an AI version of Ramsay was used to deceive viewers and potentially steal their identities. With the 2024 Presidential election approaching, it’s especially important to be vigilant for AI-generated versions of politicians. These can manifest as manipulated videos, images, or even just the voice of a politician. The potential for misinformation and deception is significant, and we need to be prepared to identify and challenge it. To help you spot AI-generated content, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides the following tips: 1. Find a high-resolution image and zoom in: Pay attention to details and look for any signs of manipulation or inconsistencies. 2. Look for asymmetry and physical inconsistencies: AI-generated content may lack natural symmetry or exhibit physical abnormalities. 3. Strange textures or a glossy effect: Notice any unusual textures or an artificial glossy appearance, which can be indicators of manipulation. 4. Look out for strange shadows, blurs, or light flickers: Pay attention to lighting inconsistencies that may suggest the content has been altered. 5. Unnatural body language: AI-generated videos may exhibit awkward or unnatural body movements that human subjects wouldn’t typically display. 6. Take a closer listen: Pay attention to the audio and voice in a video, as AI-generated voices may lack authenticity or exhibit unusual speech patterns. Additionally, the BBB emphasizes the importance of verifying the source of the content, conducting reverse image searches, and being open to the possibility of change or manipulation. As AI-generated photos and videos continue to circulate on social media and other platforms for years to come, it’s crucial to remain alert and well-informed. By being aware of the potential for manipulation and practicing critical thinking, we can protect ourselves and others from falling victim to misinformation or scams. Together, let’s stay vigilant and navigate the digital landscape with caution.