As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, so does its misuse. Today, AI-generated images can look alarmingly real — and bad actors are taking full advantage.

Whether it's a faked ransom photo, a threatening child exploitation image, or even AI-generated revenge porn, many of these images are designed to manipulate emotions and extract money through fear, guilt, or panic.

For parents, guardians, and anyone facing these threats, the question becomes critical:
Is this photo real — or is someone trying to deceive and exploit you?

Here’s how you can tell.

How to Spot a Fake Photo (Even Without Tech Training)

1. Check the Eyes, Teeth, and Fingers

• AI often struggles with details like asymmetrical pupils, irregular teeth, and unnatural finger count or positioning.

• Zoom in. Do the hands look off? Are the earrings mismatched? Are shadows inconsistent? These are common giveaways.

2. Look for Inconsistencies in Lighting and Reflection

• Are light sources hitting the subject evenly and realistically?

• Are shadows consistent with the background?

• In real photos, lighting obeys physics. AI often fakes it poorly.

3. Scan the Background

• AI often gets text, signage, and patterns wrong.

• Look for warped lettering, melted furniture edges, and repeating artifacts.

• Blurred logos, floating limbs, and distorted rooms are all red flags.

4. Run a Reverse Image Search

• Use tools like Google Lens or TinEye to trace where the photo appears online.

• If the photo was created or posted recently — especially by anonymous accounts — that’s a clue it's synthetic.

5. Trust Your Gut — Then Validate

• If something feels off about the photo, don't ignore it.

• Consult a tech-savvy friend, a digital forensics expert, or law enforcement if the image is being used to extort or threaten you.

• The faster you question the content, the faster you can shut down the scam.