(Source-timesofisrael)
Tel Aviv, Israel – Clarity, an Israeli AI cybersecurity start-up, has recently secured $16 million in seed funding to develop software aimed at detecting and protecting against deepfakes technology. Co-founded by Michael Matias, a former officer in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and leader in the 8200 Intelligence Unit, Clarity aims to address the growing threat of deepfakes and their potential impact on democratic institutions.
Matias, in an interview with Fox News Digital, emphasized the importance of AI and cybersecurity in shaping the future of democracy. He expressed his concern about the lack of adaptive solutions to combat the emerging cybersecurity virus posed by deepfakes. Clarity’s technology is seen as a new defense mechanism in the realm of warfare, offering protection against the manipulation of digital media.
The Rise of Deepfakes and Clarity’s Response
Deepfakes, which are manipulated videos or images that appear to be real, have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. According to Sensity AI, a company that monitors deepfakes, the number of deepfake videos posted online rose from 49,081 in June 2020 to 85,047 by December of the same year. Clarity initially anticipated a significant surge in deepfakes during the 2024 elections. However, their focus shifted when the Israel-Hamas war broke out in October.
The Israel-Hamas conflict served as a catalyst for Clarity’s development. Matias, whose team consists primarily of former IDF members, witnessed the power of public perception and the role of digital media during the war. He highlighted the fact that every individual with a smartphone can become a journalist, sharing news and information on platforms like Telegram, Twitter, and TikTok. The Anti-Defamation League reported that deepfake videos gained traction during the Israel-Hamas war, with public figures being portrayed in fictionalized commentaries on the conflict.
Clarity’s Approach and Future Plans
Matias compared Clarity’s technology to a water filter mechanism, explaining that it filters out anomalies and abnormalities in digital media. The funding secured by Clarity will be used to expand its research and development operations and double its staff. Matias emphasized the need for multiple AI models that continuously update and adapt to combat the ever-evolving nature of deepfakes.
Clarity’s mission is to develop effective defense mechanisms against deepfakes, which Matias likened to a virus pathogen. He drew parallels between deepfakes and COVID-19, highlighting the need for an antivirus solution. Clarity aims to provide the necessary tools to protect democratic institutions and ensure the integrity of digital media.
As deepfakes continue to pose a threat to the authenticity of digital content, Clarity’s innovative approach and commitment to combating this issue are poised to make a significant impact in the field of AI cybersecurity.
Also Read: The Deepening Dangers of Deepfake Technology
