They look real. They sound real. But they’re not. Now, local authorities are alerting the community to a growing wave of artificial intelligence-generated deepfakes circulating online. Here's details on how you can spot the warning signs before you share.

Here’s a scenario for you: you’re scrolling on social media and stop on a video of someone you know – but something feels off. They’re making outrageous claims or behaving completely out of character. You head to the comments – only to discover the video isn’t real.

It’s AI.

Taking a closer look, you begin to notice the signs: warped facial features, extra fingers, backgrounds that subtly shift. It’s easy to miss at first glance and according to the Office of Guam Homeland Security and the Office of Civil Defense, in coordination with the Mariana Regional Fusion Center, these so-called “deepfakes” are becoming more common.

Deepfakes are manipulated videos and audio created using generative AI to impersonate real people – often used to spread misinformation or even carry out financial scams.

To protect the island’s digital integrity, GHS/OCD and MRFC are urging residents to remember this phrase: “Sense the glitch, verify the source” – encouraging the community to take a closer, more critical look at online content — especially as AI technology becomes more sophisticated.

So what are the signs you should watch out for? First – do the hand test. Check for extra fingers, missing joints, or hands that appear distorted or melting into objects.

Next, look out for biological inconsistencies such as unnatural blinking, mismatched skin tones between the face and neck, or teeth that appear as a single white block.

Third, and pay attention to audio-visual lags where lip movements do not sync with hard consonant sounds like B, M, and P. Pay attention to the background, too.

AI-generated environments often shimmer, warp, or shift when a person moves. And look closely at accessories — jewelry, glasses, even hats — that may flicker, blur, or blend into the skin. But most importantly, verify the source before you share. If a piece of media, whether its a video or a photo, makes a sensational claim or requests money, pause.

Cross-check the information through official channels, including verified government social media pages and trusted news outlets.

If it can’t be confirmed by a legitimate, primary source – do not share it. In an age of misinformation, a second look can make all the difference.

If you see any suspicious activity on AI or deepfakes, contact the MRFC at (671) 475-0400 or email them at mrfc@ghs.guam.gov.