A Houston student is accused of creating and distributing explicit deep fake images of their teacher.
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Klien Independent School District Officials said the teen was editing pictures of their teacher’s face and placing them on women who make explicit poses. They added that an account was made to solicit other users to send money in exchange for more sexy photos. Attorney Matthew Sharp told Fox26Houston that deep fakes are considered an offense because it is considered fraud to impersonate someone else on the internet.
“If you use someone else’s persona to create a website, social media account, or email with the intent to defraud or harm them, it’s the offense of online impersonation. Under Texas penal code, it’s a third degree felony. It is a serious crime. If you are accused and convicted, you are looking at some serious punishment.”
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Authorities are currently investigating the claims against the student as they are facing disciplinary action for another incident relating to the case.
“Klein ISD does not tolerate verbal abuse towards teachers or staff,” said a spokesperson from KISD. “This matter continues to be under investigation as we consult with law enforcement agencies to stop the targeted cyber harassment,” officials said in a statement.
Deepfakes are a type of manipulated or synthetic media that are created using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning techniques. They involve using algorithms to create realistic video or audio content that appears real but is entirely fabricated.
Typically, deep fakes involve taking an existing video or audio clip and using deep learning algorithms to replace the original face or voice with another person’s face or voice. This can be done with remarkable accuracy, producing videos almost indistinguishable from the real thing.
While deep fakes can be used for harmless fun, such as creating realistic face-swapping videos, they can also be used maliciously to create fake news, spread propaganda, or even commit fraud. As a result, there are growing concerns about the potential impact of deep fakes on society, and efforts are underway to develop tools and techniques to detect and mitigate their effects.
The Texas Penal Code includes several sections related to fraud, which are outlined below:
- Section 32.21: Forgery: This section prohibits the forgery of a written document intending to defraud or harm another person. Forgery can include creating fake documents or altering existing ones. Forgery is typically considered a felony offense.
- Section 32.47: Fraudulent Use or Possession of Identifying Information: This section prohibits the fraudulent use or possession of someone else’s personal identifying information, such as their Social Security number, with the intent to harm or defraud them. This offense is typically considered a felony.
So far, the student nor the teacher has been identified in the case, and it is unclear when the student will be charged with the possible felony charges of fraud.