Financial Times video shows how deepfakes are made and used

In short: The Financial Times published a video in which its AI correspondent, Melissa Heikkilä, explores the world of deepfakes.

What happened

The Financial Times released a video titled “FT AI correspondent Melissa Heikkilä steps inside the world of deepfakes.” It focuses on deepfakes, which are fake images, audio, or video made using AI (computer tools that can generate realistic content).

Deepfakes can look and sound like real people, even when the person never said or did what you see. A simple way to think about it is a digital impersonation, like a very convincing forged signature, but for someone’s face and voice.

The video is presented by Melissa Heikkilä, who joined the Financial Times as its AI correspondent. In her reporting, she has covered AI risks and fairness issues, including research suggesting some AI tools used in health settings can treat people differently based on gender or ethnicity.

Why it matters

Deepfakes are getting easier to make and harder to spot, which can affect everyday life. They can be used for scams, fake “evidence” in online arguments, or to spread false stories during elections and breaking news. For most people, the practical takeaway is simple, be more cautious with surprising videos and voice clips, especially when money, reputations, or urgent requests are involved.

Source: Financial Times