Primary definition
A digital picture or video that has been maliciously edited using an algorithm in a way that makes the video appear authentic.
Also known asAI-generated fake · synthetic media · digital forgery · AI fake · deep fake
4 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 10, 2026
— March 2020 CSC ReportView source
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
Free. One useful email each week. Unsubscribe anytime.Learn more about the ESG newsletter →
M2CR
A digital picture or video that has been maliciously edited using an algorithm in a way that makes the video appear authentic.
March 2020 CSC Report · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Deepfake. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/deepfake
Sources
4 cited · last checked Aug 10, 2026
01
March 2020 CSC Report
March 2020 CSC Report
High consensus
02
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
Multi-source
03
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
Multi-source
04
An Investigation into Foreign Entities Who Are Targeting Servicemembers and Veterans Online
An Investigation into Foreign Entities Who Are Targeting Servicemembers and Veterans Online
Multi-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.
Get election terms explained weekly →
Free · Nonpartisan · Unsubscribe anytime.