Chinese Face-Swapping App Immediately Goes Viral, Triggering Security and Privacy Concerns - Crypto Mak

A new Chinese mobile deepfake application that allows users very easily swap their faces with any specific faces in any video clip was launched on Friday the 30th of August, 2019. The app, Zao, became an instant success an almost immediately became the most downloaded mobile app on China's iOS App Store, racking up several million downloads and shooting the app to the top of the store. However, several concerns have been drawn over the app's infringement of privacy and a host of other violations. The app employs advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology, letting users upload a personal picture which then gets super-imposed on already made video clips from music, TV shows, and movies. In just a few seconds, one user created a video where he replaced Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio's face with that of his, instantly adding himself to the cast of 1997's Titanic movie. What started as a really fun app now seems to be slowly becoming objectionable.