How Government Officials Are Combating the Deep Fake Crisis

By: Aaliyah Michael, Seasonal Public Relations Intern | Digital4Good

“AI is getting out of hand!” This phrase has become a common refrain as artificial intelligence continues to evolve, bringing both incredible advancements and alarming risks. Among the most concerning developments is the rise of deep fakes—AI-generated images, videos, or audio recordings that convincingly mimic real people. While deep fakes can be used for entertainment or satire, they are increasingly being weaponized to spread disinformation, harass individuals, and even exploit minors.

The severity of this issue has prompted government officials across the United States to take action. From introducing new legislation to raising awareness, efforts are underway to combat the misuse of deep fake technology. However, addressing this crisis requires more than just government intervention—it demands collective action from parents, educators, and students alike.

What Are Deep Fakes?

Understanding the Technology Behind Deep Fakes

Deep fakes are defined as simulated media—images, audio, or videos—that have been convincingly altered or manipulated to misrepresent someone as saying or doing something they never actually did. This technology leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to create hyper-realistic content, often indistinguishable from authentic material.

According to Dr. Hany Farid, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, “One photo is all it takes to create a deep fake. Anyone with a singular photo of themselves on the internet is susceptible to a deep fake getting created.”

The Dark Side of Deep Fakes

While deep fakes can be used for harmless purposes, such as creating funny memes or parody videos, they are increasingly being exploited for malicious intent. In the United States, deep fake technology has been used to harass and harm students. A 2023-2024 survey by the Center for Democracy & Technology revealed that 15% of K-12 students reported encountering sexually explicit deep fakes depicting their peers.

Who Is Addressing the Issue?

Government Legislation to Combat Deep Fake Abuse

State governments across the U.S. are stepping up to protect minors from the dangers of deep fake technology. Here are some notable examples:

• Florida: Senate Bill 1798 penalizes the creation or distribution of content that portrays minors in sexually explicit situations, even if the material is AI-generated.
• Louisiana: Act 457 criminalizes the creation of deep fakes involving minors and sexual content.
• Illinois: The state amended its Vehicle Code to prohibit individuals convicted of creating sexually explicit deep fakes from obtaining a school bus driver permit.
• Pennsylvania: In October 2024, the state passed a bipartisan bill (Act 125) that holds creators of pornographic deep fakes accountable, regardless of their age.

These legislative efforts aim to create safer environments for students both online and in schools.

How #YouCANHELP

For Parents: Protecting Your Children

1. Contact School Authorities: Report any instances of deep fake abuse involving your child to school administrators.
2. File a Report with Law Enforcement: Many jurisdictions consider the distribution of AI-generated sexual abuse material a criminal offense.
3. Document Evidence: Save any messages, images, or videos related to the deep fake for investigative purposes.
4. Utilize Online Reporting Tools: Platforms like the CyberTipline allow parents to report incidents of online sexual exploitation.

For Students: Staying Safe Online

1. Inform a Trusted Adult: If you encounter deep fake content, tell a parent, teacher, or school counselor immediately.
2. Report to Social Media Platforms: Use the platform’s reporting tools to flag and remove harmful content.
3. Avoid Sharing or Engaging: Refrain from forwarding or interacting with deep fake material to prevent further harm.
4. Seek Support: Many schools have resources to help students affected by cyberbullying or deep fakes.
5. Learn to Identify Deep Fakes: Educate yourself on spotting inconsistencies in facial expressions, lip movements, or audio quality.

The Role of Education and Awareness

While the risks associated with AI and deep fakes can feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember that technology can also be a force for good. Educators and parents play a crucial role in teaching students how to use AI responsibly. By staying informed about the latest developments in AI and promoting ethical online behavior, adults can empower the next generation to navigate the digital world safely.

For more resources on digital safety, check out Digital4Good’s Digital Safety Course for parents, guardians, and caregivers.