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Communications & Information

Tips to Spot Real and Digitally-Altered Content

17 October 2024

Learn how to spot AI-generated images, deepfake videos and digitally-altered content, and verify information against credible sources.

Magnifier over collage of Singaporeans and Singapore with a Tagline: "Tips to spot real and digitally-altered content".

How to Spot AI-Generated Images and Deepfake Videos

Given the increased prevalence of misinformation and altered images online, can you differentiate real content from AI-generated images and deepfakes?

Here’s some tips to hone your detective instincts!

Look Out for Distortions in AI-Generated Images

AI-generated images may contain distortions, including inaccuracies in landscapes and unnatural human features. These signs give you a clue on whether the images are real or AI-generated.

An AI-generated image of a family of 5 with distorted human features detected and circled out.
An AI-generated image of the Singapore skyline with misalignment and distortions being detected and circled out.

Spot the Telltale Signs of a Deepfake Video

Deepfakes can be a good laugh at times, but they can also be dangerous if the intent is malicious. Be wary of videos that have uneven resolution around the facial features and inconsistencies between the audio and visuals and in some instances, the lip-sync is off. Blurred or distorted areas in the video’s background can also be a sign of altered and deepfake videos.

How to Check Content Against Credible Sources

Check Official Websites and Social Media Accounts

Do remember to always check the information against credible sources. Steer clear of suspicious website links and always visit official verified websites and social media accounts. As a rule of thumb, download your apps from the official iOS or Google Play Store.

An analysis of an official text message sent from government agencies or services.

Download high-res version (opens in new tab)

Verify Government SMSes Using the gov.sg Sender ID

From 1 July 2024, gov.sg (note: all in lowercase) is the Sender ID that the government uses to send SMSes. The SMS will begin with the full name of the agency or service that sent it. For more details on gov.sg Sender ID, visit https://sms.gov.sg (opens in new tab).

Use ScamShield Resources to Check for Scams

To better protect you against scams, the Singapore Police Force (opens in new tab) (SPF), National Crime Prevention Council (opens in new tab) (NCPC) and Open Government Products (OGP) launched the ScamShield Suite with the following anti-scam resources:

a) 24/7 ScamShield helpline (1799)
b) ScamShield app
c) ScamShield website (www.scamshield.gov.sg (opens in new tab))
d) ScamShield Alert social channels available on WhatsApp and Telegram