In January, South African urologist Kgomotso Mathabe found herself at the center of a deepfake video scam. The video showed her promoting a fake drug to treat erectile dysfunction, which she had never done. This incident highlights the growing concern of deepfake technology, where AI is used to create realistic videos that are hard to distinguish from the real thing.
Mathabe’s experience is not unique. In India, diabetes specialist Viswanathan Mohan has also been targeted in deepfake videos, jeopardizing his reputation and potentially leading to legal action. As AI technology advances, the risks associated with deepfakes become more severe, affecting not only politicians and celebrities but also scientists in the public eye.
The use of deepfakes to spread misinformation can have serious consequences, as seen in Mathabe’s case where people were scammed out of their money. Scientists must take precautions when sharing media on social platforms to prevent misuse of their image and voice. Saving original video clips can help debunk deepfakes by providing a comparison to the authentic material.
If a scientist falls victim to a deepfake scam, there are steps they can take to minimize the impact. Contacting social media platforms to report the fake content, informing employers and professional organizations, and seeking legal action are all options to consider. Scrutinizing the video for inconsistencies and seeking support from trusted colleagues can also aid in addressing the situation.
However, navigating the aftermath of a deepfake incident can be challenging. Legal routes can be costly, and not all countries have specific laws to address deepfake scams. Reporting the incident to authorities may not always lead to prosecution, as seen in Mathabe’s case. The lack of resources and expertise to combat deepfake technology poses a significant challenge in holding perpetrators accountable.
Despite the difficulties faced by victims of deepfake scams, raising awareness about the dangers of deepfakes and taking proactive measures to protect one’s digital identity are crucial. As technology continues to evolve, the threat of deepfake scams affecting individuals worldwide remains a pressing concern. Scientists, in particular, must remain vigilant and take steps to safeguard their reputation and credibility in the face of this emerging threat.
