In recent years, China has stepped up its fight against deepfakes, or artificially generated images and videos that can be used to spread false news and manipulate public opinion. However, despite the stringent measures taken by the Chinese government, Chinese apps that specialize in creating deepfakes are gaining popularity around the world. In this article, we’ll look at China’s policies to tackle deepfakes and how these apps continue to spread to other markets.

The Chinese crackdown on deepfakes

China has taken a number of steps to fight deepfakes and protect its citizens from misinformation and manipulation. These measures include:

1. Laws and regulations: In 2019, China enacted new laws that prohibit the creation and dissemination of AI-enhanced videos and images without the consent of those involved. Violations can lead to fines and even arrest.
2. App control: The Chinese government exercises strict control over deepfake apps, imposing restrictions on the access and distribution of these applications in the country.
3. Partnering with tech companies: Chinese authorities are working closely with major tech companies to identify and remove deepfakes and to develop solutions to prevent their spread.

The spread of Chinese deepfake apps to other markets

Despite the Chinese government’s crackdown, Chinese deepfake apps continue to gain traction in other countries. These apps take advantage of the opportunities offered by international markets, where regulation of deepfakes is less strict or even non-existent. Some of the main reasons behind this expansion include:

1. Growing Demand for AI Technologies: Interest in AI-based applications, including deepfakes, is on the rise worldwide. Users are attracted by the advanced features offered by these apps, such as creating personalized videos or changing their appearance in real time.
2. Lack of uniform regulation: The lack of a global regulatory framework around deepfakes makes it difficult for governments and international organizations to effectively curb the spread of these apps.
3. The monetization potential: Deepfake apps offer Chinese companies the ability to monetize their products through advertising and in-app purchases, allowing them to expand into new markets and generate profits.

China’s crackdown on deepfakes has failed to stop its apps from spreading to other markets. Growing interest in AI technologies, the absence of uniform regulation, and monetization opportunities have contributed to the popularity of these applications outside of China. To effectively address deepfakes, it is critical that governments and international organizations work together to establish global regulations and policies that can limit the creation and dissemination of manipulated content and protect society from disinformation and manipulation.