The Dark Side of AI in Investigations

While we saw last week the many ways in which artificial intelligence (AI) is and will be transforming investigations, it also introduces significant risks that international organizations must confront.

The “dark side” of AI can undermine the very goals these tools are meant to support, creating vulnerabilities in confidentiality, authenticity, and security. From deepfake content to insecure data practices, the risks are real and growing. Here’s what international organizations need to know.

Sure, deepfakes are funny when you've put your boss in an elf costume singing Christmas songs. However, deepfake technology is very real and quite scary in the world of investigations.

Deepfake technology — AI-generated audio, video, or images designed to mimic reality — poses a significant threat to investigations. International organizations, especially those focused on integrity, accountability, and human rights, are particularly vulnerable to this form of manipulation.

Falsified Evidence: Deepfakes can create realistic but entirely fabricated content. For example, a fraudulent video may depict a whistleblower confessing to fabricated crimes, undermining their credibility. Similarly, deepfake photos and audio could falsely implicate individuals or organizations in prohibited conduct.