What Are Deepfakes?

Deepfakes are fake videos, photos, or audio recordings that have been created using computer technology to make it look like someone said or did something they never actually did. The name comes from "deep learning" (a type of computer technology) and "fake."

Think of it like a very convincing costume or disguise, but created on a computer. These fakes can be so realistic that they're hard to spot - but not impossible.

Why Should You Care?

Scammers and criminals are using deepfakes to:

• Trick people into sending money by pretending to be family members in trouble
• Steal personal information by impersonating banks or government officials
• Spread false information about public figures or events
• Damage reputations by making it appear someone did something they didn't do

How to Spot a Deepfake: Simple Warning Signs

1. Look at the Face

• Unnatural blinking: Does the person blink oddly or not at all?
• Lip sync problems: Do the words match the mouth movements perfectly?
• Blurry edges: Look around the face, hair, and neck - does it look fuzzy or unclear where it meets the background?
• Strange lighting: Does the light on the face match the rest of the scene?

2. Listen Carefully

• Robotic voice: Does the person sound slightly mechanical or monotone?
• Strange pauses: Are there odd breaks between words?
• Mismatched accent: Does the voice sound different from how this person normally speaks?
• Background noise: Does the audio sound hollow or like it was recorded in a different place than the video shows?

3. Check the Details

• Unnatural movements: Does the person move in jerky or strange ways?
• Odd reflections: In glasses or windows, do reflections look wrong?
• Unchanging background: Does the background seem frozen while the person moves?
• Jewellery or clothes: Do accessories or clothing items flicker or disappear?

4. Use Common Sense

• Too shocking to be true? If something seems outrageous or completely out of character, be suspicious
• Verify the source: Is this from a trusted news outlet or an unknown social media account?
• Check other sources: Has any reliable news organization reported this?

What to Do If You Think You've Found a Deepfake

STOP - Don't share it

Sharing spreads the fake and can hurt innocent people.

CHECK - Verify the information

• Search online for the person's name and the topic to see if reliable sources have covered it
• Visit official websites (like news organizations you trust) directly
• Call someone you trust to ask their opinion

REPORT - Tell someone

• Report suspicious content on social media using the "report" button
• If it's a scam attempt, report it to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) in the UK
• Warn friends and family if you've seen something concerning

Protecting Yourself from Deepfake Scams

If Someone Calls or Sends a Video Claiming to Be Family

1. Hang up and call them back using the phone number you already have saved
2. Ask questions only they would know - but remember, scammers might have researched social media
3. Agree on a family code word that only real family members know
4. Never send money without verifying the request through another method first

If You Receive Urgent Messages from "Officials"

• Government agencies and banks will never ask for passwords, PIN numbers, or immediate money transfers over the phone or in videos
• Take your time - legitimate organisations won't pressure you to act immediately
• Contact them directly using official phone numbers from their website or your bills - not numbers provided in the message

General Protection Tips

• Be suspicious of urgent requests for money or information
• Don't trust caller ID - it can be faked too
• Keep your social media private so scammers have less information about you
• Talk about scams with family and friends - awareness is your best protection

Remember These Key Points

✓ If something feels wrong, it probably is - trust your instincts

✓ Slow down - scammers want you to act quickly without thinking

✓ Verify through another method - call back, visit the website directly, ask someone you trust

✓ It's okay to say no - you don't have to respond to messages or requests immediately

✓ You're not alone - if you're unsure, ask a family member, friend, or contact your local police non-emergency line (101 in the UK)

Where to Get Help

• Action Fraud (UK's national fraud reporting centre): 0300 123 2040
• Citizens Advice: 0800 144 8848
• Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602
• Your local police non-emergency line: 101

Final Thoughts

Technology is changing rapidly, and while that brings wonderful opportunities, it also creates new risks. You don't need to become a technology expert to stay safe - you just need to be aware, cautious, and willing to take a moment to verify before you act.

Share this information with friends and neighbours. The more people who know about deepfakes, the harder it becomes for scammers to succeed.

Stay safe, stay informed, and remember: it's always better to be cautious than to be caught out.