ISLAMABAD: Recent viral images and videos purportedly depicting protests in support of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have been debunked as AI-generated and out-of-context material, according to a fact-check conducted by French TV channel France24.
The controversy arose following the arrest of Imran Khan on corruption charges by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) during a court appearance in Islamabad on May 9. Subsequently, violent clashes between police and protesters erupted in various cities across Pakistan.
One particular image that went viral showed a woman defiantly facing down police forces. However, France24’s fact-checking program, “Truth or Fake,” revealed that the photograph is not real. Instead, it was created using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The photo was not captured by any cameraman or photographer but was generated by AI algorithms.
Truth or Fake – Pakistan political turmoil: these ‘PTI protest’ images aren’t real
➡️ https://t.co/5jySXkf4MB pic.twitter.com/w5FulPjhGI— FRANCE 24 (@FRANCE24) May 17, 2023
In addition to the AI-generated photo, two videos were also found to be misrepresented. One of the videos portrayed protestors allegedly breaking through a police line on what was claimed to be Kashmir Highway. However, the context and authenticity of the footage were distorted.
Misinformation and manipulation of images
The fact-check by France24 highlights the spread of misinformation and the manipulation of images and videos to create a false narrative. It serves as a reminder of the significance of verifying sources and exercising caution while sharing content on social media platforms.
The incident raises concerns regarding the credibility of online content, particularly during periods of political unrest and social upheaval. Misinformation can contribute to further polarization and exacerbate tensions in society.
It is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and rely on reputable sources for accurate and verified information. Fact-checking initiatives play a vital role in countering false narratives and preserving the integrity of public discourse.
The debunking of the AI-generated images and misrepresented videos underscores the need for responsible consumption and dissemination of information, promoting transparency and accountability in media reporting and online communication.
https://twitter.com/republicdotpk/status/1656238170743226369
Efforts to combat misinformation should continue to be prioritized, with individuals, media organizations, and technology platforms collectively working towards fostering a more informed and resilient society.
