What Are Cheapfakes?
Not all manipulated media requires advanced AI. Cheapfakes are altered videos, images, or audio created with everyday editing tools. They can be as simple as changing a date on an ID card, reusing old footage with a misleading caption, or stitching together unrelated clips with a voiceover. Since they only require basic software, cheapfakes are becoming one of the easiest ways to spread false information online.
On platforms like YouTube, such content has already attracted huge audiences. WIRED discovered more than 120 channels publishing AI-assisted “celebrity fanfiction” clips. One viral example falsely showed actor Mark Wahlberg in a heated exchange on The View—despite the fact he hasn’t appeared on the show since 2015. The video, which was nothing more than a still image paired with an AI-generated script, still managed to reach nearly half a million viewers.
According to Simon Clark of the University of Bristol, these videos work because they spark strong emotions—like anger or outrage—which makes people more likely to share them, even if they doubt the authenticity. While YouTube has taken down dozens of such channels, many continue to operate.
Why Are Cheapfakes Dangerous?
The risks of cheapfakes go far beyond entertainment. They have been used in identity fraud, with altered documents enabling criminals to open bank accounts, apply for loans, and even access healthcare services. Shockingly, some fake documents have bypassed both human verification and automated security systems.
Sandra Wachter from the University of Oxford warns that the low cost and accessibility of AI and editing tools allow vast amounts of attention-grabbing—but misleading—content to flood the internet. Outrage-driven material thrives on platforms that reward longer watch times and higher engagement, making cheapfakes especially effective.
Reality Defender, a company specializing in manipulated media detection, highlights another issue: even people aware of AI trickery often need expert help to determine whether a video is genuine. This uncertainty makes cheapfakes a persistent challenge to online trust and digital security.
Cheapfakes vs Deepfakes: Key Differences
The Data Society defines manipulated media on a spectrum, from highly technical deepfakes to easily produced cheapfakes.
- Deepfakes rely on advanced AI techniques like face swaps, lip-syncing, and voice cloning. They require significant computing power, technical skill, and large datasets. Examples include Jordan Peele’s digitally altered Barack Obama video and AI artworks by Mario Klingemann. These are intricate projects capable of creating highly realistic imitations.
- Cheapfakes, on the other hand, rely on simple tricks. A video may be slowed down to make someone sound intoxicated, sped up to alter behavior, or relabeled to suggest a false narrative. Some use lookalikes or repurposed footage. Tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, Sony Vegas, or even basic mobile apps can be used to create them—making the barrier to entry extremely low.
While both deepfakes and cheapfakes pose risks, the latter spreads faster simply because almost anyone can make them.
Read more similar articles at The 10 Best Deepfake AI Tools for Creating Content in Minutes
