Software tackling deepfakes to be piloted for Scottish and Welsh elections

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Severin Carrell Scotland editorJanuary 8, 2026 at 07:07 PM

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In preparation for the upcoming Scottish and Welsh elections, the Home Office and the Electoral Commission are piloting software to detect deepfakes. The software aims to identify AI-generated fake videos and images targeting candidates, with plans to alert the police, the affected candidate, and the public upon detection. Officials will also urge social media platforms to remove the content. The Electoral Commission is advocating for legally enforceable "takedown" powers to compel platforms to remove hoax material, as current removal is voluntary. Additionally, the commission is collaborating with the Scottish parliament and police on a project to support female and minority-ethnic candidates facing abuse and harassment, exacerbated by AI-driven technologies. The initiative responds to concerns about foreign interference and the increasing prevalence of deepfakes in elections globally.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Grok ×240% Russia 40% Iran 40% North Korea 40% UK government 50% Elon Musk ×250% Scottish Parliament 50% Wales 60% Scotland ×270% Electoral Commission ×270% Home Office ×280% Sarah Mackie ×380%

Keywords

deepfakes 100% elections 90% software 70% social media 60% takedown powers 60% artificial intelligence 50% misinformation 50% online abuse 40% election integrity 40%