Deepfake technology poses a serious threat to digital security and privacy as it enables the creation of fake but convincing video and image content without the consent of the individuals whose likeness is used. In Croatia and across Europe, lawmakers are working on establishing legal frameworks such as GDPR and the AI Act, as well as proposals like the Defiance Act and No Fakes Act, which would enable faster removal of unauthorized deepfake content and impose strict penalties on offenders. However, regulation carries risks of censorship abuse and infringement on freedom of speech. A balance is needed between protecting victims and preserving fundamental rights, alongside the development of detection technology and increased platform accountability. Deepfakes have become widely accessible due to generative AI, increasing the number of victims, especially women and children. The fight against this digital threat is a long-term process requiring a combination of legal measures, technological solutions, and user education.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the dangers of deepfake technology in terms of privacy violations, digital abuse, and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups such as women and children. They highlight the need for strong legal protections, rapid content removal, and the role of social platforms in preventing harm. Concerns about potential censorship are acknowledged but often viewed as secondary to protecting victims from digital violence.
Center: Center-leaning sources focus on the balance between regulating harmful deepfake content and protecting freedom of speech and privacy rights. They discuss ongoing legislative efforts in Europe and the US, the challenges of enforcement, and the technological difficulties in detecting and managing deepfake content. The narrative stresses the importance of cooperation between governments, platforms, and users to create effective solutions without overreach.
Right: Right-leaning sources tend to emphasize the risks of government overreach and censorship in regulating deepfake content. They warn about the potential misuse of laws to silence dissent or political opponents and stress the importance of safeguarding free speech and privacy. While acknowledging the harms caused by deepfakes, they are cautious about broad regulations that could lead to digital authoritarianism or infringe on individual rights.
