'Keeping children safe' - Lancashire Police issue major warning on Artificial Intelligence deepfake images

Lancashire Police has issued a major warning over the growing threat of AI-generated deepfakes, launching a new campaign aimed at helping young people and families spot manipulated content before it spreads.

The campaign, called Fake or Real? Know the Deal, is designed to help people recognise and respond to deepfakes, including harmful manipulated content that the force says can have devastating consequences for victims.

Deepfakes are images, videos or audio clips created using artificial intelligence that can make it appear as though someone has said or done something they never actually did.

Lancashire Police says the initiative is aimed at giving young people, parents, carers and educators the confidence and knowledge to embrace technology safely, while understanding the risks that come with deepfake content. The force is urging the public to follow a simple set of checks before liking or sharing content online:

• Look closer and check the facts
• Question suspicious content
• Talk to someone about what you've seen
• If it doesn't seem like it could be real, it probably isn't

‘The line between what is real and what is fake is becoming increasingly blurred’

Assistant Chief Constable Stasia Osiowy of Lancashire Constabulary said: "Keeping children safe is at the heart of everything we do, both online and offline. As technology evolves, the line between what is real and what is fake is becoming increasingly blurred, creating new challenges for young people, parents, carers and educators.

"Artificial intelligence brings many exciting opportunities, but it can also be misused. We are increasingly seeing AI used to create highly convincing fake content, including manipulated images and videos that can cause significant distress and harm.

"Our message is simple: understand the risks, learn how to spot deepfakes, and have open conversations about staying safe online. By working together, we can help young people navigate the digital world safely and confidently."

The campaign was originally launched by Essex Police and has now been adopted by three police forces across England, reflecting what Lancashire Police describes as a growing national commitment to tackling the harms associated with deepfake technology.

Parents, carers, educators and young people are being encouraged to visit the Lancashire Police website to access advice, resources and guidance on recognising deepfakes, reporting concerns and staying safe online.

For support, young people and families can also contact Nest Lancashire, a free and confidential service for children and young people, on 0300 111 0323.