Deepfake technology—the ability to create hyper-realistic fake videos or audio using AI—has become a lightning rod for controversy. We’ve been warned about deepfakes undermining democracy, destroying reputations, and spreading disinformation on an unprecedented scale. From sensational media headlines to outlandish claims of its capabilities, the narrative around deepfakes is often fuelled by a mix of fear, hype, and outright bollocks.

Let’s separate the reality of deepfake technology from the myths and overblown claims that dominate the conversation, as we cheerfully throw ourselves into the twenty-first article in my satirical comedic polemic series.

“Deepfakes Will Destroy Democracy”

The idea that deepfakes will single-handedly erode trust in political institutions and destroy democracy has become a popular talking point. While it’s true that deepfakes could be used to create disinformation, they’re far from the most pressing threat to democratic systems. Old-school techniques like edited videos, out-of-context images, and outright lies have been more than sufficient to sow confusion and manipulate public opinion.

In most cases, a convincing deepfake isn’t necessary—people already believe what aligns with their biases. The notion that deepfakes are uniquely poised to unravel democracy is overstated bollocks. They’re just a new tool in an old game of manipulation.

“Deepfakes Are Impossible to Detect”

While early deepfake detection methods struggled, significant advancements have been made in spotting these AI-generated forgeries. Techniques such as analysing inconsistencies in facial movements, shadows, or pixel patterns are becoming increasingly reliable. Researchers are also working on embedding digital watermarks in legitimate videos to verify authenticity.

Deepfakes are challenging to detect, but the claim that they’re undetectable is exaggerated. It’s more marketing bollocks than a technological inevitability.

“Everyone Will Be a Victim of Deepfakes”

From celebrities and politicians to everyday individuals, the fear that anyone can be targeted by a deepfake is a pervasive myth. While the technology is increasingly accessible, creating a convincing deepfake still requires a significant amount of time, effort, and high-quality source material. Most people don’t have enough publicly available footage to make them viable targets.

The idea that deepfakes will become a common weapon against everyday people is largely unfounded. For now, the primary victims remain high-profile figures, making the narrative of widespread victimisation more fear-mongering bollocks than fact.

“Deepfakes Are Purely Negative”

Deepfake technology is often portrayed as inherently harmful, but it also has legitimate and beneficial applications. In entertainment, deepfakes are being used to create digital doubles for actors, enabling safer stunt work and seamless CGI effects. They’ve also been used to restore historical footage, improve accessibility by generating real-time translations, and even assist in medical training.

The notion that deepfakes are purely tools of deception ignores their potential for positive uses. Dismissing the technology entirely is just another piece of reactionary bollocks.

“The Deepfake Apocalypse Is Here”

Deepfake-related panic often paints a picture of an imminent dystopia where no one can trust anything they see or hear. But while deepfake technology is advancing, the “apocalypse” has yet to materialise. Most deepfakes circulating today are crude and easy to spot, often used for comedic or experimental purposes rather than malicious disinformation.

The tools and infrastructure for a deepfake-dominated world simply aren’t as widespread as the hysteria suggests. The claim that we’re already living in a deepfake nightmare is premature bollocks.

“Deepfakes Will Replace Actors and Performers”

The idea that deepfakes will render actors, performers, and other creatives obsolete has gained traction in certain circles. While deepfake technology can replicate someone’s appearance or voice, it lacks the nuance, emotion, and improvisational skills that human performers bring to the table.

Moreover, deepfake performances still rely on significant input from real actors, directors, and editors to achieve their final form. The notion that deepfakes will eliminate the need for human creativity is yet another piece of tech-driven bollocks.

“Deepfake Porn Will Be Regulated Away”

Non-consensual deepfake pornography—using someone’s likeness without their consent—is a growing concern, particularly for women. While efforts are underway to outlaw this practice and hold creators accountable, enforcement remains patchy. Deepfake content often spreads across multiple platforms and jurisdictions, making it difficult to track and remove.

The idea that regulation alone will stop deepfake exploitation is overly optimistic. While laws are a step in the right direction, addressing the issue requires a combination of technology, accountability, and societal change. Assuming regulation alone will solve the problem is naive bollocks.

“Deepfake Creators Are All Criminals”

Deepfake technology often gets a bad rap because of its potential for misuse, but not everyone creating deepfakes is doing so with malicious intent. Many creators use the technology for art, satire, and experimentation. From parody videos to educational content, there’s a thriving community of ethical deepfake users pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Labelling all deepfake creators as criminals is reductive bollocks—it ignores the nuance and diversity of the community using this technology.

“Deepfakes Can Fool Everyone”

A convincing deepfake might pass casual scrutiny, but when subjected to professional analysis or real-world context, most deepfakes fail to hold up. Subtle anomalies—like unnatural blinking, distorted reflections, or inconsistent audio—often give them away.

While deepfakes are improving, the idea that they’re universally foolproof is pure bollocks. Critical thinking and context still go a long way in identifying manipulated content.

Conclusion: Deepfakes Are Complicated, But Not Catastrophic

Deepfake technology is neither the apocalypse nor a trivial novelty—it’s a powerful tool with both risks and benefits. While it raises legitimate concerns about disinformation, exploitation, and privacy, many of the fears surrounding deepfakes are overblown or based on misunderstandings.

As with any new technology, the key to navigating deepfakes is a mix of scepticism, education, and thoughtful regulation. Let’s stop falling for the hype, the fear-mongering, and the bollocks—and start focusing on real solutions to real problems.