Online safety

Spotting a deepfake before you share it

The tells are getting subtler, but the habits that catch them are not.

Quiz9 minComputingCitizenshipEnglish

Spotting a deepfake before you share it — illustration

Look at edges and physics

Generated video still struggles with hair edges, teeth, jewellery, hands and reflections. Lighting on the face often disagrees with the background.

Check the source, not the clip

The strongest check is not visual. Has any established outlet reported it? Does the account have history? A single re-uploaded clip with no origin is a red flag.

Slow down before sharing

Fakes are designed to trigger fast emotion. A ten-second pause and one search is the single most effective defence anyone has.

Check your understanding

1. Which visual detail still often gives fakes away?

2. What is the strongest check of all?

3. Why does pausing before sharing help?

Your turn

Write a five-point checklist you would actually use before resharing a shocking video.

Luna: Only if you feel up to it — one more?

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Curriculum objectives covered

Understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly
Recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct, and know how to report concerns