It’s hard these days to scroll through social media and other sources without seeing photos and videos generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence (AI).
AI-generated or manipulated images are often shared out on social media with inflammatory statements like, “Why isn’t the media covering this?” Or “This is what we should be seeing in the media.”
Well, probably no media covered it because it never happened; therefore, no, you shouldn’t be seeing it more widely through mainstream media channels.
Some images are accompanied by statements like “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Perhaps those words are the ones used to prompt the creation of that image.
Some of the videos and photos are painfully obviously AI and are intended for comical purposes, but the authenticity of other photos and videos aren’t as apparent and they serve only to create confusion and inflame audiences — which is usually the intent.
This week alone provided almost countless examples of both.
Numerous videos have been created related to the folks caught having an affair after appearing on the large screen at a recent Coldplay concert, with some poking fun at other possible cheating couples and reactions. Those were clearly intended to be lighthearted (though public opinion on reactions to the situation vary widely). One video, however, suggested it was Chris Martin explaining he felt he’d made a mistake by acknowledging the pair may be having an affair. Those who aren’t as familiar with the tell-tale signs of AI could easily believe that a celebrity could address a viral moment in that way, but a quick search reveals no other sources with those comments.
Earlier this week, President Donald Trump shared out an AI-generated video of President Barack Obama being arrested in the Oval Office, which did not occur, but could confuse people and incite a variety of emotions.
As this technology continues to improve, it’s important that we all — whether you report the news or consume it — continue to refine our skills of discernment to ensure we are focusing on factual, important information our community, region, country and world need to know.
There are several organizations that focus on media literacy, with organizations like the News Literacy Project, a nonpartisan nonprofit founded in 2008, focusing on providing lessons and information for students and institutions like Cornell University offering tips for the general public.
Some of those tips from Cornell, available at https://www.library.cornell.edu/about/news/getting-your-facts-straight-tips-on-media-literacy/, include:
“Be wary of what you read (and post) on social.”
It notes, “With little or no fact checking, misinformation (inaccurate info) and disinformation (falsehoods deliberately intended to deceive) can spread like wildfire on social media.”
“Double-check the URL.”
The university notes that some websites disguise themselves as reputable and familiar news sources using a subtle variation in spelling or a different ending.
• “Beware of sloppy text.”
“Articles from credible news sources go through a rigorous editing process. If the text is riddled with spelling and grammatical errors, it’s a telltale sign that the source may not be legitimate,” the university states.
• “Pause before sharing.”
The university suggests taking a deep breath before forwarding an article or sharing it on social media, especially if it triggered an emotional reaction.
• “Stick to reputable sources.”
• “Use ‘lateral verification.’”
Cross-check information with multiple reputable sources, the university suggests, which can also provide multiple perspectives.
• “Spot the bad stats.”
“To be an astute news consumer, you need to understand the proper use of data and statistics—and the ways in which they can be manipulated or misrepresented to support a particular view,” the website states.
• “Be skeptical of ‘fake news.’”
• “Learn the lingo.”
“Credible news sites offer a variety of content; not every article is solely fact-based, though these should be clearly labeled,” the website states, adding, “For example, op-eds and reviews offer individual viewpoints, while analysis pieces provide context and background to help readers understand a topic.”
• “Diversify news sources.”
The university notes that a variety of sources and formats offer a more comprehensive view.
• “When in doubt, check the facts.”
The university suggests using fact-checking websites like factcheck.org, snopes.com, PolitiFact and the Washington Post Fact Checker.
Randi Pierce
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