Facilitator guide: Deepfake defence workshop
A facilitator crib sheet to keep the Deepfake Defence workshop flowing, grounded, and empowering—no fear-mongering, no jargon, just informed realism.
To support guiding the Deepfake Defence workshop in a way that is hands-on, emotionally safe, and myth-busting—building critical awareness without fuelling paranoia. Participants can leave with more confidence, not less.
Timing prompts (for ~90 minute workshop)
| Time | Segment | Key notes |
|---|---|---|
| 00:00–00:10 | Welcome & check-in | Set the tone: no wrong questions, no judgement. Ask: “What made you curious to join this?” |
| 00:10–00:25 | What are deepfakes? | Use examples—real and fake. Keep it practical: focus on what people might see, not the tech internals. |
| 00:25–00:45 | Spot the fake exercise | Show clips or images. Have participants work in small groups. Encourage guessing—then discuss what gave it away. |
| 00:45–01:05 | Make your own fakes | Show how it’s done on Windows and Linux. Emphasise: “If you can make it, others can too.” |
| 01:05–01:20 | Risk scenarios & responses | Lead group brainstorms on: “Where could this show up in your life or work?” Then: “What would you do?” |
| 01:20–01:30 | Takeaways & debrief | Wrap up with three key points, a group share (“One thing you’re taking away?”), and a warm sign-off. |
Phrasing options to keep tone safe
- “This isn’t about catching you out—it’s about building your radar.”
- “There’s no shame in being fooled. That’s the point of this tech.”
- “What you’re noticing—lighting, sound, micro-expressions—are all valid instincts.”
- “The goal is not paranoia. The goal is to slow down when it matters.”
Myth-busting cues
| Myth | What to say instead |
|---|---|
| “I’ll never be fooled by this.” | “We’re all susceptible—it’s about reducing risk, not pretending we’re immune.” |
| “It’s all AI now, no one’s safe.” | “Most scams still rely on basic manipulation, not deep tech. Stay calm, not cynical.” |
| “Only techies can make fakes.” | “Anyone with a laptop and an internet connection can pull this off. That’s why we’re here.” |
| “You need special tools to detect fakes.” | “Your own senses, plus a few checks (reverse image search, metadata tools), go a long way.” |
Emotional safety reminders
- Always check the room. If someone looks distressed, offer a break or private chat.
- Avoid traumatic scenarios. Don’t use fakes involving violence or impersonation of someone’s family.
- Emphasise agency. “You’re not powerless. Knowing this puts you ahead of most people.”
Messages to reinforce
- Deepfakes are not magic—they are tools.
- You do not need to panic, just pay attention.
- Confidence comes from practice, not perfection.