In this episode of the Root & STEM Podcast, host Salma is joined by Maura Grossman, a research professor at the University of Waterloo and an expert in responsible artificial intelligence. They dive into the topic of deepfakes, discussing their differences from other manipulated media, their impact on political processes, and the concept of the liar’s dividend. Grossman also explores advancements in detection technologies, regulatory challenges, and the importance of public awareness in combating the spread of deepfakes. The episode concludes with insights on the role of tech companies and the need for comprehensive education to mitigate deepfake threats.

00:00 Introduction to the Root & STEM Podcast

00:26 Meet Maura Grossman: Expert in AI and Law

00:57 Understanding Deepfakes and Their Implications

02:46 Deepfakes vs. Shallow Fakes: Key Differences

04:16 Real-World Examples of Deepfake Impact

05:39 The Liar’s Dividend: Exploiting Deepfakes

07:37 Threats to Democracy and Public Trust

08:54 Technological Advancements in Deepfake Detection

11:41 The Role of Governments and Regulations

14:03 Responsibilities of Tech Companies

15:18 Public Awareness and Education

18:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts