What Is a Deepfake? (And Why It Matters)

You might have heard the word 'deepfake' and wondered what it means. A deepfake is a picture or video made by a computer that shows something that never really happened — like making it look as if someone said something they never said, or putting someone's face on a different body. They can look very real, which is what makes them tricky.

How Deepfakes Are Made

Deepfakes are made using clever computer programmes that learn what someone looks like from lots of photos, and then use that information to create new pictures or videos. The computer can make it look like someone is saying something, doing something, or being somewhere they never actually were. It is a bit like a very advanced version of cutting out a face from a photo and sticking it somewhere else — except the computer does it so well that it can be hard to tell it is fake.

Why They Can Be Unkind or Harmful

Because deepfakes look so real, they can be used to trick people or to say unkind things about someone. For example, someone might make a fake video that looks like a real person saying something embarrassing or untrue. This can hurt feelings, get people in trouble for things they did not do, or make people feel scared or upset. Making a deepfake of someone without their permission — especially one that is unkind or embarrassing — is wrong, and in many cases it is against the law.

How to Spot a Deepfake

Deepfakes are getting better all the time, but some clues can help. Look at the edges of the face — do they look blurry or wobbly? Does the lighting on the face match the rest of the picture? Does the person blink normally? Does something look a little bit 'off', even if you cannot say exactly what it is? If something feels strange about a video or photo, it is always okay to be a little bit suspicious. You can ask a grown-up to help you check.

What to Do If You See One

If you see a picture or video that you think might be a deepfake — especially one that shows someone you know in an embarrassing or unkind way — do not share it. Tell a grown-up you trust, like a parent, carer or teacher. If the deepfake is about you or someone at your school, it is important to tell an adult quickly so they can help sort it out. You will not get into trouble for telling — it is absolutely the right thing to do.