As we spend more and more time online, it’s important to be aware of the potential for fraud in the images we see. With the rise of AI-driven image generation, it’s becoming harder to tell whether an image is an actual photograph, modified using editing tools, or generated from scratch.
Platforms offering images are not yet ready for this kind of topic. It’s not established how to determine whether an image is genuine. To test this theory, one photographer conducted an experiment. They published an AI-generated image on their profile, created a model profile with AI-generated images, and then changed the profile to indicate that it was a digital model.
The results were surprising. In the first phase, no one noticed, with the same likes, comments, and messages. In phase two, there were more likes, comments, and messages, with many from unwanted sources. In phase three, fewer comments, but still many messages from people who thought the image was real.
Given that the internet is full of people who only look at images without reading the text, this could be a significant issue. Consider social media platforms like Instagram, where everything is about images, and digital influencers are already a thing. Where will this lead when we open dating apps?
So what can you do as a consumer of images online? One recommendation is to use tools that can help identify whether an image has been generated using AI technology. Another option is to look for inconsistencies or imperfections in the image that might suggest it’s not a real photograph.
It’s also important to be aware of the potential for fraud and to approach images with a critical eye. Don’t assume that everything you see online is real, and take the time to read the text accompanying the images. By staying vigilant and informed, you can help protect yourself from potential scams and frauds.
