Fake Iran images show AI used as a weapon of ‘public opinion,’ USF experts say

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Reports of AI-generated images showing fake videos of the conflict in Iran are spreading across social media.

Experts at the University of South Florida shared how to debunk those images.

Some say war is about deception. But some of the AI generated videos spreading online about the war in Iran can mislead anyone about a very real conflict.

The fake content shows buildings burning, some of them toppling over, and massive missiles being transported in the streets. Dr. Jordan Howell, an assistant professor in USF’s Department of Criminology, said you can detect flaws in AI videos by using software to cross-reference the images and by checking with reputable sources to see if it’s real or not.

“In current geopolitical context, AI has allowed propaganda at scale, and it’s really hard for individuals to know what information is real,” Howell added.

There are also videos like what the White House posted on social platform X, merging video game scenarios with real Department of Defense footage of the war in Iran.

“The White House, along with our adversaries, are engaged in a war of public opinion and sentiment,” Howell said.

The profresser explained AI can and will be used in combat situations. The technology could help locate and strike targets without putting troops on the ground. Howell added that the tech would still need human oversight, and could be dangerous to not use this tech.

“As technology advances, so too does warfare. And modern warfare is going to be, you know, who has the best AI,” he said.

Chad Mairn, a professor at St. Petersburg College, recommends using the “SIFT” method for identifying fake videos:

Stop and think before you share an article or video.

Investigate the source to see who is posting it and what their expertise is.

Find better coverage by searching for the same story from a trusted source (e.g., Reuters, The Associated Press, etc.)

Trace claims back to the original context to locate where the image or video first appeared.

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