U of I: Staying Informed About Election Deepfakes
The 2024 election is just around the corner, and with it comes a wave of misinformation and disinformation. One particularly insidious form of this is the election deepfake. These are manipulated videos or audio recordings that make it seem like a politician is saying or doing something they never actually did.
So how do you stay informed in an age of deepfakes?
1. Be a Skeptical Citizen: The internet is a wild place. Before you share or believe anything you see online, take a step back and ask yourself: Does this sound right? Is it coming from a credible source? Don't fall for clickbait headlines or misleading thumbnails – always do your research.
2. Verify Sources: If you're unsure about a video or audio clip, try to find the original source. Check fact-checking websites like Snopes or PolitiFact.
3. Use Your Critical Thinking: Deepfakes are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but they still have telltale signs. Look for unusual lip movements, inconsistent lighting, or unnatural facial expressions.
4. Be Aware of the Spread: Deepfakes are often shared on social media. Be cautious about content from unknown sources and consider fact-checking information before sharing it with your friends.
5. U of I Resources: The University of Illinois offers resources to help students navigate the information landscape. The U of I Library has extensive databases and guides on media literacy and critical thinking.
6. Be Informed, Not Misinformed: The fight against misinformation is a collective effort. By learning about the tactics used by deepfakes, you can be a more informed and responsible citizen. Remember, stay critical, verify your sources, and don't be afraid to question everything you see online.
U of I: A Leader in Combating Disinformation:
The University of Illinois is a hub for research on misinformation and its impact on society. The Illinois Election Integrity Project is actively working to combat the spread of disinformation, including deepfakes. Students and faculty alike are playing a crucial role in developing tools and strategies to identify and prevent the spread of misinformation.
Staying informed and being critical is essential. By being aware of the threats posed by deepfakes, you can be a part of the solution to creating a more informed and truthful online environment.
