Canada’s cybersecurity frontman is grappling with the challenge of combating AI-generated fake videos as disinformation campaigns loom over upcoming elections. The head of the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (CCCS), Sami Khoury, expresses concerns about the imminent threat and the inadequacy of current verification tools.
In this scenario, where a video appears authentic, featuring a figure endorsing content, but is entirely AI-generated, traditional verification methods fall short. Khoury points out that AI can now convincingly mimic voices, making it challenging to differentiate between genuine and manipulated content.
The potential for misuse is significant, as AI can manipulate short voice snippets to convey messages contrary to the original intent. Khoury emphasises that relying on a simple voice message at the end of an ad is insufficient in this evolving landscape.
The CCCS head suggests that a potential solution could involve a form of “digital signature” attached to recordings, proving their authenticity. However, he acknowledges that the technology for implementing this strategy is not yet fully developed, especially when transitioning from email to the 2D or 3D world.
The threat of AI-powered disinformation and misinformation, particularly during election periods, is a known concern. The CCCS’s December report highlighted the likelihood of “foreign adversaries” employing generative AI and deepfake videos to influence elections within the next two years.
The challenges extend beyond political spheres, with phishing attacks becoming more sophisticated. Khoury notes the evolution of phishing emails from error-laden messages to near-perfectly crafted ones. Scammers now leverage digital tools to tailor emails to victims’ interests, making them more dangerous and harder to detect.
Ransomware emerges as another growing cyber threat, with Canadian organizations reportedly paying an average of $1.13 million in 2023, double the amount from 2021. In response, the Communications Security Establishment initiated a program to issue pre-ransomware notifications, detecting potential attacks in their early stages.
Khoury underscores the importance of proactive measures, especially as nation-states like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran continue their attempts to breach government systems. The ever-evolving cyber landscape requires continuous vigilance and innovative strategies to stay one step ahead of potential threats.