BTSWGfL has released a new topic hub providing advice and support about synthetic media, as the prevalence of synthetic, AI-generated content, commonly referred to as 'deepfakes,' continues to grow. The Synthetic Media Hub provides important tools and information for anyone who wants to learn more about different forms of synthetic media, the technology behind it, and the support available for anyone affected by harmful or sexual synthetic content.
Expanding on the release of our AI hub, the Synthetic Media Hub is an essential guide for anyone looking to understand synthetic media, promote safer online practices and increase digital literacy and critical thinking in your communities.
Access the SWGfL Synthetic Media Hub
Understanding Synthetic Media and Its Impact
Synthetic media encompasses content created or altered using artificial intelligence, including highly realistic images, videos, audio, and text. This technology, while offering new creative possibilities, also poses certain risks, such as the spread of misinformation and the potential for privacy violations.
The Synthetic Media Hub aims to educate readers on the benefits and considerations of synthetic media, and what terms like 'AI-generated media' and 'deepfakes' mean. Alongside this, the Hub provides information about the current laws involving synthetic sexual content in the UK, and the latest guidance for schools on how to respond to incidents involving AI-generated nude imagery of young people.
Resources for Support
Alongside general information about synthetic media, the Synthetic Media Hub provides tailored information to support adults and schools, alongside parents and carers who need additional advice about managing content, talking to young people, and understanding the privacy and safeguarding measures available.
The Synthetic Media Hub serves as a useful resource for those looking for help with concerns around synthetic media. The Hub breaks down information about what is considered synthetic sexual and harmful content, whilst offering guidance on reporting harmful content and non-consensual intimate imagery. The Hub provides extensive information on how SWGfL services such as Report Harmful Content, the Professionals Online Safety Helpline, StopNCII.org and the Revenge Porn Helpline can assist in cases involving synthetic content.
Guidance for Teachers
Recognising the emerging challenges that synthetic media poses in educational settings, the Synthetic Media Hub highlights some of the different ways synthetic media may be used. Alongside this, the hub explores the key steps educators can take to strengthen their knowledge around safeguarding practices and the current guidance and support in place.
The Hub provides advice on encouraging digital literacy in schools, and how services such as ProjectEVOLVE and ProjectEVOLVE EDU can help to ensure both students and teachers have strong digital literacy skills; to support critical thinking and increase education around how to understand and interpret online content, including distinguishing between what is real and synthetic online.
Stay Up to Date
As we have seen over the past few years, synthetic media and emerging forms of AI technology continue to develop and adapt rapidly. The launch of the Synthetic Media Hub aims to support adults, schools, parents and carers to ensure they can keep up to date with the latest news, resources and guidance as this field continues to grow.
Visit the SWGfL Synthetic Media Hub to learn more about this important new resource and how it can help you and your community stay safe online.
