I came across an article recently about how many Indonesians fell victim to scams involving deepfake technology, where videos of President Prabowo Subianto were manipulated to deceive the public. These deepfakes were so convincing that they led people to believe in false promises and fraudulent schemes, resulting in significant financial losses and widespread confusion.
Deepfake technology refers to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to create or alter audio, visual, or audio-visual content that convincingly mimics real individuals. This technology can produce highly realistic fake videos and audio recordings, making it difficult for the average person to discern what is real and what is not.
In the Philippines, the situation is equally alarming. Deepfakes have become a prevalent issue, with many well-known celebrities being victimized by these malicious creations. According to several reports, approximately 95% of deepfake content is pornographic in nature, targeting individuals without their consent and causing severe emotional and reputational damage. Celebrities such as Liza Soberano, Paulo Avelino, Ivana Alawi, Maine Mendoza, and Catriona Gray have all been affected by deepfakes.
As the election season heats up, the potential for deepfakes to be used as a tool for political manipulation becomes increasingly concerning. Various political camps may resort to deepfakes to discredit opponents, spread misinformation, and sway public opinion. The ability to create highly realistic and convincing fake videos poses a significant threat to the integrity of the electoral process and the democratic principles that underpin our society.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has warned of a possible increase in deepfakes and other AI-generated fake videos as the 2025 midterm elections near. DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy emphasized the need for a law to address concerns about deepfake technology, highlighting the potential for cognitive warfare and the spread of disinformation. The DICT has also urged victims of deepfakes to reach out to the agency and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Council for assistance in taking down harmful online material.
Actually, there is a proposed law on deepfakes at the House of Representatives that is pending in the committee. House Bill No. 9425, also known as the proposed Penalizing Deepfake Act, was authored by Cavite Representatives Lani Mercado-Revilla and Ramon Revilla III, along with Agimat Paty-List Representative Bryan Revilla. The bill aims to establish clearer parameters for determining the appropriate legal consequences for deepfake-related actions.
HB 9425 prescribes heavier penalties for the use of deepfake technology in crimes such as defamation, gender-based sexual harassment, online abuse or exploitation of children, access device fraud, deceptive consumer transactions, copyright infringement, terrorism, election-related offenses, and online fraud. However, with the 19th Congress on recess and ending in a few months, its passage is no longer passible. Thus, the bill will have to go through the legislative process again, starting with its refiling in the 20th Congress.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is also taking action against the potential misuse of AI and deepfake technology in the upcoming elections. Comelec Chair George Erwin Garcia has proposed banning AI and deepfake technology in campaign materials to prevent the spread of deceit and misinformation among voters. The Comelec has sought the commitment of social media giants like Google, Meta, and TikTok to not allow their platforms to be used for spreading disinformation, especially deepfakes. This move aims to ensure a fair and transparent election, free from the distortions of advanced technological manipulations.
The initiative to address deepfakes through legislation is a crucial step in safeguarding individuals and society from the harmful effects of this technology. While artificial intelligence, including deepfake technology, can be a powerful and beneficial tool when used wisely and rightfully, it also carries significant risks that must be carefully considered. As a communications professional, AI has made my job easier by allowing me to subject my work to comments and suggestions via AI, ultimately improving the end product.
As we move forward, it is essential to strike a balance between harnessing the positive potential of AI and mitigating its risks. Public awareness, education, and robust legal measures are key components in achieving this balance.
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