UK's 'world-first' deepfake detection framework unlikely to stop the fakes, says expert

Home Office enlists Microsoft to set industry standards as AI-generated forgeries surge from 500K to 8M in two years

The UK government claims it will develop a "world-first" framework to evaluate deepfake detection technologies as AI-generated content proliferates.

The Home Office is working with Microsoft, other tech corporations and academics to assess methods for identifying harmful forgeries. It estimates eight million deepfakes were shared in 2025, up from half a million in 2023.

Nik Adams, Deputy Commissioner for City of London Police, called the framework "a strong and timely addition to the UK's response to the rapidly evolving threat posed by AI and deepfake technologies."

"By rigorously testing deepfake technologies against real-world threats and setting clear expectations for industry, this framework will significantly bolster law enforcement's ability to stay ahead of offenders, protect victims and strengthen public confidence as these technologies continue to evolve."

However, Dr Ilia Kolochenko ...