Deepfake videos 'targeting' school staff probed

A social media account which posted "deeply inappropriate deepfake content" which "targeted school staff" is being investigated by police.

A TikTok account which used Grainville School's badge and branding uploaded five videos - with some including staff members.

The Education and Lifelong Learning Minister confirmed the incident had been reported to both TikTok and the States of Jersey Police.

The account has since been removed from the platform. The BBC has contacted Grainville School for comment.

Deepfakes are videos, picture or audio clips made with artificial intelligence to look real.

Deputy Rob Ward said he strongly urged people not to watch, share, or engage with the material in any way.

He added: "We take any attempt to impersonate our schools or cause harm to members of our community extremely seriously.

"Highlighting and circulating the activity of fake accounts and media reporting can inadvertently give them more attention and encourage others to repeat this behaviour.

"For this, I would urge extreme caution.

"Our focus is on ensuring the swift removal of the content, supporting those affected, and reinforcing safeguarding measures.

"At this stage, this appears to be an isolated incident, but we continue to monitor the situation across all schools."

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