AI Deepfakes at the Met Gala: The Fine Line Between Fun and Fraud

Image Credit: kauan | Instagram

At this year's Met Gala, Katy Perry was notably absent, yet images of her wearing extravagant gowns, one with a deep-V and fabric moss and another in a tight corset dress, circulated widely on social media. These images, crafted using generative AI, were so convincing that even Perry's mother was fooled, complimenting her daughter on a look she never wore. Perry herself had to correct the misunderstanding publicly from her studio, highlighting the pervasive reach and impact of AI-generated content.

Deepfakes Hit the Mainstream

2023 marks the year when AI-enabled deepfakes have become a mainstream concern, illustrating their potential to deceive on a large scale. The phenomenon isn't limited to celebrities like Perry; political figures and everyday individuals are increasingly finding themselves depicted in manipulated media. From robocalls mimicking President Joe Biden to fabricated explicit images of celebrities like Taylor Swift, the scope of deepfakes is broadening, sparking significant ethical and legal debates.

Legal Landscape and the Need for Regulation

While there is no federal law in the U.S. specifically banning deepfakes, certain regulations such as the FCC's ban on AI-generated voices in robocalls do exist. Some states have taken steps to outlaw deepfake pornography, but the legislative framework remains patchy and often inadequate in addressing the full spectrum of issues posed by these technologies. This legal gap leaves much room for misuse, affecting public figures and private individuals alike.

The Darker Side of Deepfakes

Beyond the novelty and occasional humor of AI-generated images, deepfakes pose serious risks. They have the potential to disrupt elections by spreading misinformation, manipulate personal relationships through romance scams, and even create false evidence in legal disputes. The incident at the Met Gala serves as a lighthearted example of a much deeper and more disturbing potential, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive legal and technological solutions to manage and mitigate the risks associated with this powerful AI capability.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/met-gala-ai-deepfakes-fooled-katy-perrys-mom-social-media-2024-5