The effects and use of artificial intelligence (AI) has been increasingly a reality in people’s daily lives. An example of this were the photos that circulated on social networks in the last week that showed Pope Francis wearing a very unusual outfit — and which actually turned out to be fake.
But there remains the question: how is it possible to know if an image is really the result of a moment experienced in reality or if it is a situation created by artificial intelligence?
According to AI and deepfake experts, which is an artificial intelligence formula that creates content from the intersection of data, it is important to pay attention to details and analyze images. This check, which aims to ensure the veracity of the information, prevents fake news and misinformation from spreading, especially through social networks.
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As we are talking about artificial intelligence, at least so far, it is possible to say that the machines have flaws, that is, the content produced is not perfect. Therefore, to know if an image was created by AI, pay attention to the symmetries of faces and bodies, possible smudges, blurs and unusual details that are present in the image. Details in the eyes, ears and teeth, from placement to odd lighting, can also indicate whether the image was made up.
If it is an image involving people, the volume and texture of the hair can also indicate whether or not the use of AI. There are cases when the depicted hair is so smooth that it looks like a painting.
If you identify illegible letters, especially in the background of the image, it is also possible that it is a fake image. The same happens when the background is too blurred, even blurring the image.
Another element that should be observed are the contours of the image and the continuity of the lines. For example, some body part that has a square cutout on its surface is most likely an artificially created image. Objects that blend into the skin are also a good example of how to spot an AI creation.
But it is worth mentioning that, even if the image is very convincing, it is important to search for other information that validates or not the content being conveyed by the image. For that, you can “google” and search from related images to reliable information about the fact on official websites, for example.
There are also systems that help detect AI-created images. One of them is the Fotoforensics website. When uploading an image or adding the link where it is located, the system delivers a series of information about the image.
Editing: Nicolau Soares
