DeepFake: When Utopia Meets Reality

2023 · Sociology & Artificial Intelligence · Eskisehir, Turkey

Abstract

This research investigates awareness levels regarding DeepFake technology among Social Sciences high school students. DeepFake, which uses artificial neural networks to swap identities in media, presents creative opportunities in cinema but poses significant risks in digital fraud. This study aimed to measure initial awareness and analyze the efficacy of targeted educational interventions.

Methodology

Mixed-methods design using quantitative and qualitative data collection.
Random sampling of 259 participants aged 14-19 in Eskisehir.
Pre-test and post-test analysis conducted via the Qualtrics platform.
Educational intervention involving informational sessions and technical demonstrations.

Key Findings

Initial Awareness: 37.45% of participants reported having no knowledge of DeepFake technology prior to the study.
Detection Gap: 40.15% admitted an inability to distinguish DeepFakes from authentic media at the outset.
Impact of Intervention: Post-intervention data showed a significant increase in self-reported knowledge and threat perception.
Social Trust: Over 51% of respondents believe DeepFakes pose a grave threat to the credibility of news and social media.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate that structured educational interventions can meaningfully shift both awareness levels and risk perception regarding synthetic media among young populations. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on digital literacy and AI ethics education.

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