‘Seeing Is Believing’ Is Dead: AI Deepfakes Have Broken Visual Evidence

Forbes Business

by Lars Daniel, Contributor

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

AI deepfakes have revolutionized the way we view digital evidence, casting doubt on the reliability of photos and videos once considered irrefutable. With the rise of advanced AI technology, it is now easier than ever to create convincing fake visuals that can manipulate perceptions in legal, business, and financial contexts. This shift has significant implications for industries like insurance, where fraudulent claims could be more difficult to detect, and for court cases, where visual evidence may no longer be trusted without thorough digital forensics analysis. The ability of deepfakes to alter reality has created a new landscape of challenges in verifying authenticity. For instance, insurance companies face increased risks of scams as criminals use these tools to fabricate incidents or injuries. Similarly, law enforcement and legal professionals must now rely on sophisticated software and expertise to distinguish between genuine and manipulated media. This reliance on digital forensics underscores the growing importance of technology in maintaining trust in visual evidence. From a business perspective, the impact is profound. Companies must now allocate additional resources to combat deepfake-related fraud, whether through enhanced security measures or partnerships with digital forensics experts. The financial stakes are high, as even one instance of verified fake media could lead to costly legal battles or reputational damage. Moreover, businesses must adapt their strategies to account for this new reality, ensuring that their operations remain resilient against such threats. Ultimately, the death of "seeing is believing" signals a critical turning point in how we verify information in both personal and professional realms. As AI continues to evolve, so too must our approaches to verifying authenticity. The need for robust digital forensics tools and practices has never been greater, highlighting the importance of staying ahead of emerging technologies to safeguard against deception.

Verticals

businessfinance

Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/22/2026