Abstract

This paper delves into the intricate landscape of deepfakes, exploring their genesis, capabilities, and far-reaching implications. The rise of deepfake technology presents an unprecedented threat to American national security, propagating disinformation and manipulation across various media formats. Notably, deepfakes have evolved from a historical backdrop of disinformation campaigns, merging with the advancements of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to craft convincing but false multimedia content.

Examining the capabilities of deepfakes reveals their potential for misuse, evidenced by instances targeting individuals, companies, and even influencing political events like the 2020 U.S. elections. The paper highlights the direct threats posed by deepfakes to national security, illustrating scenarios where manipulated content leads to civil unrest and jeopardizes governmental stability.

President Joe Biden's Executive Order 14110 is a pivotal step in addressing the deepfake menace, offering directives aimed at fortifying national security, safeguarding privacy, and enforcing AI safety standards.

Additionally, the paper delves into strategies and emerging technologies proposed to mitigate the threats posed by deepfakes. It emphasizes the importance of media literacy, critical thinking, and collaborative efforts across academia, industry, and government agencies to develop proactive measures against evolving deepfake technology.

This comprehensive overview illuminates the urgency for ongoing research, emphasizing the collective effort needed to combat deepfakes and ensure the safety and advancement of American citizens and global society.

Faculty Advisor/Mentor

Daniel Shin

Document Type

Paper

Disciplines

Artificial Intelligence and Robotics | Information Security | Other Computer Sciences | President/Executive Department

DOI

10.25776/y393-w931

Publication Date

12-1-2023

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Rising Threat - Deepfakes and National Security in the Age of Digital Deception

This paper delves into the intricate landscape of deepfakes, exploring their genesis, capabilities, and far-reaching implications. The rise of deepfake technology presents an unprecedented threat to American national security, propagating disinformation and manipulation across various media formats. Notably, deepfakes have evolved from a historical backdrop of disinformation campaigns, merging with the advancements of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to craft convincing but false multimedia content.

Examining the capabilities of deepfakes reveals their potential for misuse, evidenced by instances targeting individuals, companies, and even influencing political events like the 2020 U.S. elections. The paper highlights the direct threats posed by deepfakes to national security, illustrating scenarios where manipulated content leads to civil unrest and jeopardizes governmental stability.

President Joe Biden's Executive Order 14110 is a pivotal step in addressing the deepfake menace, offering directives aimed at fortifying national security, safeguarding privacy, and enforcing AI safety standards.

Additionally, the paper delves into strategies and emerging technologies proposed to mitigate the threats posed by deepfakes. It emphasizes the importance of media literacy, critical thinking, and collaborative efforts across academia, industry, and government agencies to develop proactive measures against evolving deepfake technology.

This comprehensive overview illuminates the urgency for ongoing research, emphasizing the collective effort needed to combat deepfakes and ensure the safety and advancement of American citizens and global society.