Young Scots feel AI deepfakes ‘now just part of daily life’, survey reveals

Young Scots Embrace AI Deepfakes as Everyday Reality, Survey Indicates

Young Scots feel AI deepfakes now just - A recent survey has uncovered a significant shift in how Scottish youth perceive AI-generated deepfakes, with many describing them as an integral part of their daily digital experiences. The findings, released by the national youth information charity Young Scot, reveal growing concerns about the authenticity of online content and the pervasive influence of misinformation in the lives of young people.

Rising Concerns Over Misinformation

According to the annual Truth About Youth report, over 80% of participants aged 11 to 25 have encountered misleading information online in the past year. This surge in misinformation is attributed to the increasing sophistication of AI tools, which have made it challenging for individuals to distinguish between genuine content and fabricated material. The survey underscores a troubling trend: a majority of respondents feel the lines between truth and falsehood are increasingly blurred in their digital interactions.

Almost 70% of those surveyed expressed anxiety about the reliability of information they consume, highlighting a sense of unease about the authenticity of online sources. A further 60% admitted to struggling with the ability to identify what is real versus what has been altered through AI technologies. This uncertainty has led to a general distrust of digital content, with many participants stating they are unable to fully rely on what they see online.

“Deepfakes are now just a part of daily life and they’re getting better every day. There has to be stronger regulations put on AI,” said one survey participant, capturing the sentiment of many in the study.

Expert Insights on Digital Dilemmas

Finlay Anderson, a 20-year-old trustee at Young Scot, emphasized that the internet has become a cornerstone of modern life, yet its impact on young people’s perception of reality is profound. “Being online is a huge part of everyday life, but there’s a growing sense that you have to question almost everything you see,” he noted. The proliferation of AI-generated content, including deepfakes, has exacerbated this situation, making it harder for individuals to discern truth from fabrication.

Anderson also pointed out that this constant scrutiny of information can be mentally exhausting. “Even when something looks convincing, there’s often a nagging doubt about whether it’s real. That can be frustrating and overwhelming, and it’s no surprise that many young people feel anxious or confused,” he explained. The report highlights how these feelings of doubt are not just isolated incidents but part of a broader trend of distrust in digital platforms.

Another respondent echoed these concerns, stating, “It’s frustrating to wonder constantly if something is manipulated or untrue.” They added that this pervasive suspicion has led to a mindset where almost everything online is viewed with skepticism. “You have to be suspicious of practically everything,” they said, reflecting the weight of the issue on young people’s confidence in the digital world.

Call for Regulation and Digital Literacy

Young people surveyed repeatedly advocated for stronger oversight of AI and social media platforms, urging action to combat the spread of misinformation. John Loughton, chief executive of Young Scot, stressed the importance of equipping youth with the tools to navigate this complex landscape. “Young people are facing a tidal wave of misinformation online and many feel they can no longer trust what they see,” he said.

Loughton highlighted that the need for critical thinking skills has never been more urgent. “This research shows that many young people feel they have to constantly question whether information is genuine or manipulated, and that can be exhausting and overwhelming,” he added. He emphasized that fostering these abilities is essential for ensuring young individuals can make informed decisions in an increasingly digital society.

Mr. Anderson agreed, noting that while young people are unwilling to disconnect from the online world, they seek the confidence to engage with it responsibly. “That means making sure young people have the critical thinking tools they need to assess information, ask questions, and make informed decisions,” he said. The report underscores that trust in information is foundational to youth well-being, education, and participation in public discourse.

Beyond Deepfakes: Broader Societal Concerns

The survey also revealed wider anxieties among young Scots, extending beyond AI-generated content. Four in five respondents mentioned that violence is having a significant impact on their lives, while 85% identified child poverty as a pressing national challenge. Improving access to quality healthcare, particularly within the NHS, and addressing inequality were cited as key priorities by participants.

These findings suggest that the challenges posed by digital misinformation are interconnected with broader societal issues. Young people are not only concerned about the accuracy of information but also about the stability and fairness of their communities. The report calls for a multifaceted approach to tackling these concerns, including policy reforms and public awareness campaigns.

As the demand for AI regulation grows, so too does the urgency for action. Young Scots are not merely reacting to the current state of digital media—they are actively shaping the future of how information is managed and trusted. With the continued rise of AI-generated content, the need for clear guidelines and educational support for critical thinking has never been more critical.

Additional Highlights from the Survey

While the focus of the report was on AI and misinformation, other themes emerged, such as the role of social media in shaping youth perspectives. Participants highlighted the importance of platforms being held accountable for the spread of false information, particularly in the context of political discourse and public health messaging.

Young Scot’s findings also reflect a desire for more transparency in the digital space. Respondents called for greater clarity about how AI tools are used to create content, urging platforms to provide users with the knowledge to spot manipulations. This includes labeling AI-generated material and offering educational resources to help young people understand the technology’s capabilities and limitations.

Overall, the report paints a vivid picture of a generation navigating an information-saturated world where trust is a fragile commodity. As AI continues to evolve, the voices of young Scots are a vital reminder of the need for proactive measures to ensure the digital environment remains a source of reliable knowledge rather than a breeding ground for confusion and doubt.