AI in Fake News: How to Recognise Fabricated Images
amsterdam, maandag, 29 september 2025.
AI is playing an increasingly significant role in creating realistic images that can be used for fake news. In this article, we will explore what post-photography is, how AI is advancing this technique, and the methods available to identify fabricated images. This knowledge is crucial for preventing misinformation and promoting media literacy.
What is Post-Photography?
Post-photography refers to images that are digitally created, often using AI, rather than being taken with a camera [1]. This technique is increasingly being used by artists who experiment with AI, real photos, and other methods [1]. Artists such as Joan Fontcuberta have been early adopters of digital techniques to create images that look like photographs but have never actually existed [1]. AI tools like DALL·E, MidJourney, and Stable Diffusion can generate realistic images, raising questions about the authenticity of visual content [1].
How AI is Advancing Post-Photography
AI is playing an increasingly significant role in the development of post-photography. Tools like DALL·E, MidJourney, and Stable Diffusion make it possible to generate hyper-realistic images that are almost indistinguishable from real photographs [1]. This brings new challenges, as these images can easily be used for fake news or identity fraud [1]. Nonetheless, AI also offers new opportunities for artists and photographers to enhance their creativity and develop unique styles [1].
Implications for Media Literacy and Democracy
The growth of AI-generated images has serious implications for media literacy and democracy. According to Kishore Mahbubani, former president of the UN Security Council, the integrity of information is increasingly threatened by the wave of fake news produced by AI [2]. This can lead to a decline in trust in science and medicine, particularly in the West, where we are seeing a resurgence of diseases that were once under control due to vaccines [2]. Additionally, fake news can cause social conflicts, disrupt international relations, and hinder economic growth [3][4].
Methods to Identify Fabricated Images
To combat the spread of fake news, various methods have been developed to identify fabricated images. AI detectors use algorithms and machine learning to identify and flag misleading or false content [3]. These systems can perform automatic fact-checking by quickly analysing large volumes of news and cross-referencing multiple sources for errors, inconsistencies, or suspicious claims [3]. Moreover, AI systems can recognise patterns of misinformation by detecting sensational headlines, fabricated quotes, and non-existent sources [3].
Practical Tips for Readers
For readers who want to learn how to identify fake news and fabricated images, there are several practical tips. First and foremost, it is important to always consult multiple reliable sources before believing or sharing anything [3]. Also, be wary of sensational headlines and unlikely claims, and check the metadata of images for suspicious elements [1]. Additionally, tools like ChatGPT can assist in fact-checking information [4]. Finally, staying informed about the latest developments in combating fake news, such as the AI chatbot launched by Malaysia in January 2025, is beneficial [3].