Deepfake AI Videos: A Rising Threat to National Security

In a rapidly evolving digital world, deepfake technology has emerged as a formidable challenge, especially when used to create videos of political figures discussing sensitive topics. Experts are sounding the alarm that such manipulated media could destabilize nations and erode public trust.

The Problem Highlighted

At a recent briefing, Prof Dr Selvakumar Manickam from the Universiti Sains Malaysia Cyber Security Research Centre warned that the easy production and wide distribution of deepfake AI videos pose a serious security risk. He noted that in extreme cases, these videos may be orchestrated to simulate attacks or even provoke false flag operations, thereby triggering conflicts or even wars.

Real-World Implications

A striking example recently captured public attention when a deepfake video featuring US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim went viral. The video showcased a fabricated dialogue on geopolitical issues and a dubious investment scheme, circulating widely across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp. Despite these developments, neither the US embassy in Malaysia nor the Prime Minister’s Office have commented on the incident.

The Danger of Misinformation

Prof Dr Manickam stressed that the unchecked spread of these manipulated videos could undermine the stability of political systems. He recalled previous instances where deepfake content influenced public opinion and electoral outcomes:

• In Indonesia, a deepfake video erroneously depicted a former president inciting voter turnout.
• In India, false statements were attributed to a political figure via deepfake recordings.
• In Slovakia, deepfake audio imitating a liberal candidate’s voice is believed to have swayed an election.

Technological Advances and Detection Challenges

While modern AI is capable of mimicking realistic lip movements, voice intonations, and facial expressions with precision, experts advise that detection is still feasible with careful technical analysis. Indicators such as inconsistent lighting or minor mismatches between mouth movements and audio can reveal a video's true nature. However, for the average viewer lacking technical expertise, the risk of being misled remains high, emphasizing the need for reliable news sources and informed skepticism.

Moving Forward

The deepfake phenomenon is not limited to political figures; previous incidents have involved personalities like Petronas’ top management, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok. With the technology advancing at an unprecedented pace, experts like Prof Dr Manickam call for a proactive approach to detect and counteract deepfake videos, safeguarding political stability and public confidence in leadership.

In summary, as nations grapple with this digital menace, the battle against misinformation is set to intensify. Vigilance, technical expertise, and responsible media consumption will be key in navigating the evolving landscape of AI-driven content manipulation.