AI, Deepfakes and Staying Safe Online

Helping Young People Navigate New Technology Safely

Artificial intelligence (AI) is developing rapidly and is becoming part of everyday life for many young people. While AI can offer exciting opportunities for learning, creativity and communication, it also brings new risks.

One growing concern is deepfake technology, which uses AI to create highly realistic images, videos or audio recordings that appear genuine but have been altered or completely fabricated. In the wrong hands, deepfakes can be used to cause harm, spread misinformation or exploit children and young people.

Lancashire Police Launches AI Awareness Campaign: Fake or Real? Know the Deal

Lancashire Police has launched Fake or Real? Know the Deal, a new awareness campaign to help young people, parents and carers understand how to use AI safely and responsibly.

The campaign will:

• Raise awareness of the risks associated with AI and deepfake technology.
• Explain what is legal and illegal when creating, sharing or using AI-generated content.
• Provide practical advice to help families stay safe online.
• Encourage open conversations about responsible online behaviour.

Education is Key

Understanding emerging technology is one of the best ways to prevent harm. By talking about AI early, we can help young people recognise risks, make informed choices and understand the consequences of misusing technology.

Education and prevention play a vital role in protecting children and reducing the likelihood of young people becoming victims of, or involved in, harmful online behaviour.

Working Together

Keeping young people safe online is a shared responsibility. Lancashire Police is working alongside schools, parents, carers and partner organisations to ensure children and young people have the knowledge, confidence and support they need to navigate new technologies safely.

Parents and carers can help by:

• Taking an interest in the apps and platforms their children use.
• Encouraging open and honest conversations about online activity.
• Discussing how AI-generated images, videos and other content can be misleading or harmful.
• Reminding young people to think carefully before creating, sharing or reposting content online.

Need Help or Advice?

If something online doesn't feel right, support is available. Anyone concerned about online activity, image misuse or AI-related harm should seek advice and report concerns as early as possible.

For support, guidance and further information, click here.

Together, through awareness, education and early intervention, we can help young people enjoy the benefits of AI while staying safe from its risks.