WA Police have been mimicked in a series of AI-generated deepfake videos taking aim at the state’s new firearm laws.
The videos, posted by the Western Australia Firearms Licence Holders Facebook page, spread misinformation about the specifics of the new legislation.
A video is circulating showing a police officer and an ADF soldier, with the officer inaccurately stating that firearm licenses can’t be issued to defense personnel “unless they can prove they aren’t crazy.”
Another shows police officers forcibly removing a shotgun from an older man’s hands.
Consumer Protection is urging people to recognize the red flags in these fake videos, such as incorrect uniforms and emblems, individuals without fingernails, and the presence of a watermark from the AI video app VEO.
“It is very concerning because this misinformation is sparking unnecessary heated debates within the community,” stated Consumer Protection Commissioner Trish Blake.
New regulations now demand mandatory health assessments for firearm applicants and renewals, but misleading deepfake videos claim it’s a “blanket directive” aimed specifically at ADF members.
“To those producing these videos, I would say you’re complicating matters for legitimate firearm owners,” remarked WA Police Commander Dario Bolzonella.
Police say they’re investigating the videos, which have garnered hundreds of thousands of views.
When reached out for comments, the Western Australia Firearms Licence Holders Facebook page responded with another AI video featuring a gorilla being arrested for creating AI misinformation videos.
