New York Times Technology

Can A.I. Detection Tools Really Spot Fake Images and Videos?

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AI detection tools are increasingly deployed to verify online content authenticity, but extensive testing reveals significant limitations. Researchers conducted over 1,000 tests examining deepfake and synthetic media detection capabilities, uncovering both strengths and critical weaknesses. Results suggest current detectors struggle with evolved manipulation techniques, raising questions about their reliability for fact-checking and content verification at scale.