In recent times, many people have been misusing AI. Although it has been a problem in the last few years, it’s becoming more of a problem daily since the recent surfacing of deep fakes. Deep Fakes that are used to make AI-generated content are becoming very realistic. They can be used for memes and pranks, but it is becoming popular to use deep fake technology to manipulate and gaslight the population.

“I don’t think I would recognize whether it is or not because I’m not as tech savvy as your generation,” said Tiffany Harrigan 

Harrigan expresses her concern over how technology could be used to manipulate her and generations who aren’t as informed about what is going on online.”It’s hard to keep up with all the changes. This feels like something that can happen to anyone, and they wouldn’t even know.”

 In the current world of easy-to-use technology where anything can happen with the click of a button, deepfake tech has become the ultimate tool for misuse and distrust online. It becomes hard to stay informed when you don’t know what is real. 

“ I feel like we as people need to know boundaries and guidelines for technology. People take advantage of things that can be used to help us and turn it into something that can be used for personal gain or cause unnecessary concerns in society,” says Senior Zarahi Leiva 

Many students have expressed their concerns and experiences with deep fakes online, especially those who are approaching adulthood. Students have expressed coming across at least one deepfake, whether it happened firsthand or was heard through a mutual friend sharing a video, that is believable if not paying close attention.

“I have seen videos of fake memes that are fake, but on apps like TikTok, I’ve seen fake political videos and fake videos of YouTubers and stuff like that. They look so real till I check the comments,” said Student Melody Yeagan. 

Melody Yeagan isn’t the only one who has noticed an alarming rise in the spread of deep fakes circulating on social media. 

“This Generation needs to be more skeptical of things around them, especially online where reality is easily altered,” says staff member Taylor Holst 

Trust is a big part of the misuse of AI, but there are bigger concerns, such as the personal identity of people online. With deep fake technology, with technology and a face online, anyone can be used in images or videos that they have not done or participated in.

“I feel like it hasn’t gotten to the point, but with progress being made in our generation, it’s bound to happen where we have to redefine the line between reality and fiction”. Heidy Garcia Bentacourt.

The rise of deepfakes has brought to life the line that should be drawn between fiction and reality.