PUTRAJAYA, July 15 — Members of the public have been urged to be wary of scam tactics involving the dissemination of fake videos and images or deepfakes created using artificial intelligence (AI).
Speaking at the Communications Ministry’s monthly assembly here today, minister Fahmi Fadzil said while the use of AI indeed helps the country’s development, some parties are abusing the technology.
“Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, in an Instagram post several days ago, showed a WhatsApp video call that seemed as if she was talking when it was actually a live deepfake.
“AI can be used for good and evil. We need to be cautious of the information received and ensure that any video received is genuine or produced through AI applications,” he said.
As such, Fahmi called on Bernama and RTM to publicise and educate the public on the dangers of scam tactics using AI deepfakes.
Yesterday, the country's number-one singer, Siti Nurhaliza, reportedly revealed the latest tactic used by scammers to imitate her voice and face for profit utilising AI technology.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said he will meet with representatives of all social media platforms in Singapore later this month to discuss several matters, including the dangers of AI on their platforms.
“I hope the issue of AI-generated deepfakes can be addressed by Meta, as WhatsApp is under its responsibility,” he said.
He also suggested that all ministries utilise AI in their tasks and requested the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute to coordinate courses on the technology.
“AI can help not only in creating content but also in several other aspects such as in tasks involving coding, programming, data analysis and other areas where it can be beneficial,” he said.
Also present at the assembly were the Communications secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, Bernama chief executive chairman Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj.
— Bernama
