Latest news with #Colman
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Can you trust what you see? How AI videos are taking over your social media
A few days ago, a video that claimed to show a lion approaching a man asleep on the streets of Gujarat, sniffing him and walking away, took social media by storm. It looked like it was CCTV footage. The clip was dramatic, surreal, but completely fake. It was made using Artificial Intelligence (AI), but that didn't stop it from going viral. The video was even picked up by some news outlets, and reported as if it was a real incident, without any verification. The video originated from a YouTube channel – The world of beasts, which inconspicuously mentioned 'AI-assisted designs' in its bio. In another viral clip, a kangaroo – allegedly an emotional support animal – was seen attempting to board a flight with its human. Again, viewers were fascinated, many believing the clip to be real. The video first appeared on the Instagram account 'Infinite Unreality,' which openly brands itself as 'Your daily dose of unreality.' The line between fiction and reality, now more than ever, isn't always obvious to idle users. From giant anacondas swimming freely through rivers to a cheetah saving a woman from danger, AI-generated videos are flooding platforms, often blurring the boundary between the unbelievable and the impossible. With AI tools becoming more advanced and accessible, these creations are only growing in number and becoming sophisticated. To understand just how widespread the problem of AI-generated videos is, and why it matters, The Indian Express spoke to experts working at the intersection of technology, media, and misinformation. 'Not just the last year, not just the last month, even in the last couple of weeks, I've seen the volume of such videos increase,' said Ben Colman, CEO of deepfake detection firm Reality Defender. He gave a recent example – a 30-second commercial by betting platform Kalshi that aired a couple of weeks ago, during Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals. The video was made using Google's new AI video tool, Veo 3. 'It's blown past the uncanny valley, meaning it's infinitely more believable, and more videos like this are being posted to social platforms today compared to the day prior and so on,' Colman said. Sam Gregory, executive director of WITNESS, a non-profit that trains activists in using tech for human rights, said, 'The quantity and quality of synthetic audio have rapidly increased over the past year, and now video is catching up. New tools like Veo generate photorealistic content that follows physical laws, matches visual styles like interviews or news broadcasts, and syncs with controllable audio prompts.'. The reason behind platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube pushing AI-generated videos, beyond technical novelty, is not very complex – such videos grab user attention, something all platforms are desperate for. Colman said, 'These videos make the user do a double‑take. Negative reactions on social media beget more engagement and longer time on site, which translates to more ads consumed.' 'Improvements in fidelity, motion, and audio have made it easier to create realistic memetic content. People are participating in meme culture using AI like never before,' said Gregory. According to Ami Kumar, founder of Social & Media Matters, 'The amplification is extremely high, unfortunately, platform algorithms prioritise quantity over quality, promoting videos that generate engagement regardless of their accuracy or authenticity.' Gregory, however, said that demand plays a role. 'Once you start watching AI content, your algorithm feeds you more. 'AI slop' is heavily monetised,' he said. 'Our own PhDs have failed to distinguish real photos or videos from deepfakes in internal tests,' Colman admitted. Are the big platforms prepared to put labels and checks on AI-generated content? Not yet. Colman said most services rely on 'less‑than‑bare‑minimum provenance watermark checks,' which many generators ignore or can spoof. Gregory warned that 'research increasingly shows the average person cannot distinguish between synthetic and real audio, and now, the same is becoming true for video.' When it comes to detection, Gregory pointed to an emerging open standard, C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity), that could track the origins of images, audio and video, but it is 'not yet adopted across all platforms.' Meta, he noted, has already shifted from policing the use of AI to policing only content deemed 'deceptive and harmful.' Talking about AI-generated video detection, Kumar said, 'The gap is widening. Low-quality fakes are still detectable, but the high-end ones are nearly impossible to catch without advanced AI systems like the one we're building at Contrails.' However, he is cautiously optimistic that the regulatory tide, especially in Europe and the US, will force platforms to label AI output. 'I see the scenario improving in the next couple of years, but sadly loads of damage will be done by then,' he said. A good question to ask is, 'Who is making all these clips?' And the answer is, 'Everyone'. 'My kids know how to create AI-generated videos and the same tools are used by hobbyists, agencies, and state actors,' Colman said. Gregory agreed. 'We are all creators now,' he said. 'AI influencers, too, are a thing. Every new model spawns fresh personalities,' he said, adding that there is a growing trend of commercial actors producing AI-slop – cheap, fantastical content designed to monetise attention. Also Read | Canva rolls out new AI video clip feature powered by Google's Veo 3 model Kumar estimated that while 90 per cent of such content is made for fun, the remaining 10 per cent is causing real-world harm through financial, medical, or political misinformation. A case in point is the falsified footage of United Kingdom-based activist Tommy Robinson's viral migrant‑landing video. According to Colman, AI is a creative aid – not a replacement – and insisted that intentional deception should be clearly separated from artistic expression. 'It becomes manipulation when people's emotions or beliefs are deliberately exploited,' he said. Gregory pointed out one of the challenges – satire and parody can easily be misinterpreted when stripped of context. Kumar had a pragmatic stance: 'Intent and impact matter most. If either is negative, malicious, or criminal, it's manipulation.' The stakes leap when synthetic videos enter conflict zones and elections. Gregory recounted how AI clips have misrepresented confrontations between protesters and US troops in Los Angeles. 'One fake National Guard video racked up hundreds of thousands of views,' he said. Kumar said deepfakes have become routine in wars from Ukraine to Gaza and in election cycles from India to the US. Colman called for forward-looking laws: 'We need proactive legislation mandating detection or prevention of AI content at the point of upload. Otherwise, we're only penalising yesterday's problems while today's spiral out of control.' Gregory advocated for tools that reveal a clip's full 'recipe' across platforms, while warning of a 'detection-equity problem'. Current tools often fail to catch AI content in non-English languages or compressed formats. Kumar demanded 'strict laws and heavy penalties for platforms and individuals distributing AI-generated misinformation.' 'If we lose confidence in the evidence of our eyes and ears, we will distrust everything,' Gregory warned. 'Real, critical content will become just another drop in a flood of AI slop. And this scepticism can be weaponised to discredit real journalism, real documentation, and real harm.' Synthetic content is, clearly, here to stay. Whether it becomes a tool for creativity or a weapon of mass deception will depend on the speed at which platforms, lawmakers and technologists can build, and adopt, defences that keep the signal from being drowned by the deepfake noise.
Irish Independent
11-06-2025
- Irish Independent
Vibrant waterfront gem in Cork is tailor-made for family adventures this summer
With its iconic harbour location, playful streetscapes, and deep-rooted ties to emigration and maritime history, Cobh is a shared experience waiting to happen. As families increasingly seek meaningful ways to connect across age groups, this forward-thinking town offers the perfect setting — combining rich history, stunning scenery, and activities that speak to young explorers and seasoned holiday makers alike. With direct rail, bus, and road links to Cork city and beyond, it's as easy to reach as it is to fall in love with. Whether you're a grandparent interested in tales of the Titanic, a parent seeking quality time exploring the outdoors and museums, or a family looking to create fun memories, Cobh is a destination where generations can connect. Visitors can step into history at Titanic Experience Cobh, housed in the original White Star Line ticket office, overlooking the pier from where the final 123 passengers boarded tenders that ferried to bring them to the ill-fated ship. It's a powerful and immersive visit that captures the imagination of all ages. Alternatively tourists can visit Cobh Heritage Centre to explore Ireland's rich emigration story. The centre brings to life the poignant journeys of those who left Ireland through Cobh — once known as Queenstown — for new lives in America, Australia, Canada and beyond. Exhibits explore everything from the Titanic and Lusitania, Annie Moore to convict ships and Irish diaspora history with a pictorial quiz and colouring station to keep younger children busy. Then, set sail for Spike Island, a short ferry ride from Cobh and one of Europe's most captivating heritage sites. Part fortress, part prison, part wide open spaces — its story is delivered with energy and humour by expert guides and fun exhibits, making even the weightiest history accessible to young minds and engaging for adults. Back on dry land, tourists can take time to explore the picturesque town. Stroll to the Titanic Memorial Garden, stride up the hill to snap a multigenerational photo in front of the colourful houses of the Deck of Cards, and feel the sense of awe as you gaze up at and explore the lofty St. Colman's Cathedral. With cafés and restaurants offering hearty lunches and irresistible ice creams, there's something to satisfy every appetite. While Cobh makes a perfect day trip, it truly comes into its own when you stay a little longer. With welcoming accommodation options like The Commodore Hotel, Bella Vista Hotel, WatersEdge Hotel, and a host of self-catering stays and B&Bs there's no need to rush away. Gems like Fota Wildlife Park, Fota House and Gardens and Barryscourt Castle are always firm favourites with kids and grandparents alike. For outdoor enthusiasts, Marlogue woods will have you scanning the trees for Red Squirrels, Cuskinny offers a chance to paddle and swim, while the Titanic Trail and Cobh Rebel Walking Tours deliver engaging accessible explorations of the town's layered past. Cobh has great waterside walks, a stunning waterside park in the town centre, a superb playground, self-drive boats and RIB tours for an exhilarating trip around the harbour and beyond! For the older family members, the Midleton Distillery Experience is close by and has one of the highest rated whiskey and distillery tours in Ireland. You can swing into golf at Cobh Golf Club or Fota Island Resort or learn the ropes together on a family sail course. On days when cruise liners dock in Cobh a carnival buzz takes over: locals in period costume, live music and a general sense of celebration will only enhance a visit to Cobh. Cobh's magic lies not just in its attractions, but in its atmosphere — a town with a big heart and a strong sense of community, where families can reconnect, slow down and savour time together. For attractions, travel tips, and accommodation options, visit
Rhyl Journal
05-06-2025
- Politics
- Rhyl Journal
Bishop and Colman's mustard heir's wife face discipline on safeguarding failings
Retired former Bishop of Durham Paul Butler is among those who could be banned from ministry as a result of investigations following the Makin review – but former archbishop of Canterbury George Carey will not face any action. The report, published last year, concluded that abuse carried out for decades by Christian camp leader John Smyth was known about and not acted upon by various people within the Church. While the review led to the eventual resignation of Mr Welby as the most recent Archbishop of Canterbury, the Church's national safeguarding team (NST) undertook to look at all clergy criticised within the report. In an update on Thursday, the Church said Bishop Paul and six others are to face disciplinary proceedings under the Clergy Discipline Measure (CDM). CDM outcomes can range from a conditional discharge where no penalty is imposed, to removal from office, resignation by consent and a lifetime ban from ministry. While a new process, replacing the CDM, was approved by the Church's parliament earlier this month to include defrocking, it is not thought this will be in place in time for these cases. Lord Carey, who was named in the Makin report, had been one of 10 clergy revealed in February as facing possible action. But the NST has confirmed 89-year-old Lord Carey, Reverend Paul Perkin and Reverend Hugh Palmer will face no further action. As there is a 12-month time limit on cases being brought, the NST had to ask for permission of the President of the Tribunals to bring a CDM 'out of time'. Permission was granted in only seven of the 10 cases and the NST said it 'entirely respects' the decision from the 'independent judicial process'. Others named as facing CDMs include Reverend Sue Colman – the wife of the Colman's mustard heir Sir Jamie Colman. The Makin report concluded Mrs Colman, associate minister at St Leonard's Church in Oakley, near Basingstoke in Hampshire, was aware of Smyth's abuse before being ordained and noted that she and her husband visited Smyth in Africa in the 1990s and funded the Smyths through a personal trust. Around a week after the Makin report was published, the Diocese of Winchester said Mrs Colman had been asked to 'step back from all ministerial duties'. The rest facing possible disciplinary action are Reverend Roger Combes, Reverend Andrew Cornes, Reverend Tim Hastie-Smith, Reverend Nick Stott and Reverend John Woolmer. The NST said it will make no further comment on the cases while CDM proceedings are under way and no timeline has been given for when they might conclude.
Leader Live
05-06-2025
- Politics
- Leader Live
Bishop and Colman's mustard heir's wife face discipline on safeguarding failings
Retired former Bishop of Durham Paul Butler is among those who could be banned from ministry as a result of investigations following the Makin review – but former archbishop of Canterbury George Carey will not face any action. The report, published last year, concluded that abuse carried out for decades by Christian camp leader John Smyth was known about and not acted upon by various people within the Church. While the review led to the eventual resignation of Mr Welby as the most recent Archbishop of Canterbury, the Church's national safeguarding team (NST) undertook to look at all clergy criticised within the report. In an update on Thursday, the Church said Bishop Paul and six others are to face disciplinary proceedings under the Clergy Discipline Measure (CDM). CDM outcomes can range from a conditional discharge where no penalty is imposed, to removal from office, resignation by consent and a lifetime ban from ministry. While a new process, replacing the CDM, was approved by the Church's parliament earlier this month to include defrocking, it is not thought this will be in place in time for these cases. Lord Carey, who was named in the Makin report, had been one of 10 clergy revealed in February as facing possible action. But the NST has confirmed 89-year-old Lord Carey, Reverend Paul Perkin and Reverend Hugh Palmer will face no further action. As there is a 12-month time limit on cases being brought, the NST had to ask for permission of the President of the Tribunals to bring a CDM 'out of time'. Permission was granted in only seven of the 10 cases and the NST said it 'entirely respects' the decision from the 'independent judicial process'. Others named as facing CDMs include Reverend Sue Colman – the wife of the Colman's mustard heir Sir Jamie Colman. The Makin report concluded Mrs Colman, associate minister at St Leonard's Church in Oakley, near Basingstoke in Hampshire, was aware of Smyth's abuse before being ordained and noted that she and her husband visited Smyth in Africa in the 1990s and funded the Smyths through a personal trust. Around a week after the Makin report was published, the Diocese of Winchester said Mrs Colman had been asked to 'step back from all ministerial duties'. The rest facing possible disciplinary action are Reverend Roger Combes, Reverend Andrew Cornes, Reverend Tim Hastie-Smith, Reverend Nick Stott and Reverend John Woolmer. The NST said it will make no further comment on the cases while CDM proceedings are under way and no timeline has been given for when they might conclude.
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Bishop who served King in Coronation faces ban over child abuse scandal
A bishop who served the King during the Coronation is among seven Church of England clergy facing disciplinary action after a damning abuse report which prompted Justin Welby's resignation. Paul Butler, the retired former bishop of Durham, who acted as bishop assistant to His Majesty during the ceremony, is among those who could be banned from ministry as a result of investigations following the Makin review. However, George Carey, the former archbishop of Canterbury, will not face any action. The report published last year ruled that abuse carried out for decades by Christian camp leader John Smyth was known about and not acted upon by various people within the Church. While the review led to the eventual resignation of Mr Welby as the most recent archbishop of Canterbury, the Church's national safeguarding team (NST) undertook to look at all clergy criticised within the report. In an update on Thursday, the Church said Mr Butler and six others would face disciplinary proceedings under the clergy discipline measure (CDM). CDM outcomes can range from a conditional discharge where no penalty is imposed, to removal from office, resignation by consent and a lifetime ban from ministry. While a new process, replacing the CDM, was approved by the Church's parliament earlier this month to include defrocking, it is not thought this will be in place in time for these cases. Lord Carey, who was named in the Makin report, had been one of 10 clergy revealed in February as facing possible action. But the NST has confirmed 89-year-old Lord Carey, the Reverend Paul Perkin and the Reverend Hugh Palmer will face no further action. As there is a 12-month time limit on cases being brought, the NST had to ask for permission of the president of the tribunals to bring a CDM 'out of time'. Permission was granted in only seven of the 10 cases and the NST said it 'entirely respects' the decision from the 'independent judicial process'. Others named as facing CDMs include the Reverend Sue Colman, the wife of Sir Jamie Colman, the Colman's mustard heir. The Makin report concluded Mrs Colman, associate minister at St Leonard's Church in Oakley, near Basingstoke in Hampshire, was aware of Smyth's abuse before being ordained and noted that she and her husband visited Smyth in Africa in the 1990s and funded the Smyths through a personal trust. Around a week after the Makin report was published, the Diocese of Winchester said Mrs Colman had been asked to 'step back from all ministerial duties'. The others facing possible disciplinary action are Reverend Roger Combes, Reverend Andrew Cornes, Reverend Tim Hastie-Smith, Reverend Nick Stott and Reverend John Woolmer. The NST said it would make no further comment on the cases while CDM proceedings were under way and no timeline has been given for when they might conclude. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
