Timeframe: March 2025 – February 2026
Donor: Government of Japan
Situation
Synthetic media refers to media content, such as images, videos, audios, or text, that has been totally or partially generated or manipulated using Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms. Given the prediction that most digital content will be synthetically generated and indistinguishable from real content in the near future, it is essential for law enforcement agencies worldwide to address the challenges and opportunities ahead. Although synthetic media holds potential as a valuable tool for law enforcement, it also poses significant threats and raises complex questions about its impact on law enforcement operations.
Project Summary
As a hub for global dialogue on emerging technologies, the INTERPOL Innovation Centre has established Project Synthwave to support countries in the Southeast Asian region in addressing synthetic media threats through community building, knowledge sharing and regional collaboration.
At the outset, Project SynthWave will bring together representatives from participating countries for a Strategic Meeting, where they will share insights and experiences on the impact of synthetic media. This platform will allow INTERPOL to assess common challenges and specific needs in tackling the issue.
In partnership with leading experts in the field of synthetic media, a comprehensive Global Research Study will be conducted, incorporating a wide range of perspectives and insights from around the world.
Subsequently, an Expert Forum will provide a platform for representatives to gain a deeper understanding of the current synthetic media landscape, and valuable knowledge on the criminal exploitation of this technology and effective countermeasures.
Finally, the project will produce a set of INTERPOL Guidelines to detect and address synthetic media based on findings of the Strategic Meeting, Global Research Study and Expert Forum. The Guidelines will serve as a practical tool to help law enforcement understand synthetic media technology, its threats and effective strategies for prevention and response. They combine expert knowledge and member country perspectives, offering actionable insights to strengthen participating countries’ ability to combat the criminal abuse of synthetic media.
Project Activities
- Conduct global research on the impact of synthetic media on law enforcement work;
- Establish protocols for authenticating digital evidence in synthetic media investigations;
- Enable participating countries to equip their law enforcement personnel with the skills to effectively navigate and combat the challenges of synthetic media;
- Foster collaboration with industry and academia through the establishment of a group of experts in synthetic media, involving participating countries;
Participating countries
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam