Deepfake Information Note by Turkish Personal Data Protection Authority

On 19.01.2024, the Personal Data Protection Authority published the Deepfake Information Note (Information Note). The purpose of the Information Note is to provide a better understanding of what Deepfake technology is, which is formed from the words deep learning and fake. The key points in the Information Note are briefly summarized below:

• The Information Note defines the term Deepfake. Accordingly, Deepfake is the use of photos, videos, or audio through artificial intelligence to mimic or alter people's faces, gestures, and voices in a realistic way.
• Furthermore, it is emphasized that with Deepfake technology, personal data such as audio and video are mixed with other personal data, resulting in mixed content that is not real but contains real personal data. In that regard, it is probable that crimes and misdemeanors against personal data may occur in Deepfake content.
• The Information Note addresses the threats posed by Deepfake technology. The main threats are manipulation by creating fake videos and fake voices, financial harm, cyberbullying, and fraud. Children and the elderly, who are particularly technologically disadvantaged, are vulnerable to attacks such as blackmail and threats.
• In addition, the Information Note provides examples of ways to recognize when content is Deepfake. For example, unnatural eye movements or facial expressions of the person in the video that do not convey the same emotion as what they are saying are important indicators.
• Additionally, precautions that can be taken by real persons and organizations against the threats of Deepfake technology are provided. Accordingly, the primary measures that real persons can take are to be careful when sharing personal data on social media platforms and to be aware of the existence and threats of Deepfake content. Measures that organizations can take include effectively managing network and cybersecurity operations, establishing a centralized reporting and monitoring unit, improving internal communication channels, and staying in touch with the public relations department.
• Moreover, the Information Note stresses the need to develop anti-deepfake software on social media and content provider platforms.