AI-Generated Media and Deepfakes
Deepfakes involves videos, images, or audio recordings that look or sound completely realistic but have been altered using artificial intelligence (AI). Faces can be super-imposed, expressions can be manipulated, and separate elements can be combined to produce something entirely new. These are all hoaxes that are commonly used to show someone doing or saying something they did not do or say.
What to talk with youth about deepfakes:
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With a curiosity to understand what youth are encountering or have heard about AI, ask them what they know about it. Build on what they share to explain AI-generated content.
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Ask how youth think deepfakes could be harmful and what the risks could be. Offer information about how sexually explicit deepfakes can be misused to harm youth and discuss the seriousness involved.
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Talk about the real impacts on someone who is victimized by someone else creating a sexually explicit deepfake images or video of them — even though the content isn’t real.
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Explain youths’ rights to safety, privacy, bodily autonomy, and sexual integrity. If someone violates their rights, share with them that you want to know so you can help them. Let them know you are in their corner and will be there to walk with them through tough situations.
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Share services that can help if a sexually explicit deepfake has been created, such as:
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Youth benefit from opportunities to solve problems, practice decision making, and apply their learning to solving real challenges. Generate “what if” scenarios. Discuss how to deal with difficult situations online and practice possible answers to increase the likelihood they will be able to respond safely and tell someone if something concerning happens online. Ask things such as:
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If someone created a sexually explicit photo of you using AI, who could you turn to for help?
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If someone threatened to send out a sexually explicit photo of you (whether AI-generated or not) and demanded that you pay them money to stop, what would you do?
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If a friend thought it was funny and wanted you to create AI-generated pictures of someone else, what would you do? Why? For more information, visit Cybertip.ca/Deepfakes.
The tips and other information provided herein is intended as general information only, not as advice. Readers should assess all information in light of their own circumstances, the age and maturity level of the child they wish to protect and any other relevant factors.