Deepfakes in Education: How Cyberbullying with AI Threatens Students and Schools

The advancement of artificial intelligence has made it trivial to create high-quality fake videos and photos — and schools are at the forefront of this new type of cyberbullying. Deepfakes of students in embarrassing situations, teachers with forged speeches and even images of sixth-restraints already circulate in groups of messages, without educators or parents being able to distinguish the real from the manufactured. EdTech Magazine, in an article on the impact of deepfakes on the school environment, warns that the ability to detect these contents with the naked eye is practically zero, requiring new prevention and remediation strategies.

How are deepfakes used in school cyberbullying?

The most common cases involve the assembly of colleagues' faces in third-party bodies, audio tampering to simulate offensive speeches and the creation of false evidence of alleged violations. By 2025, a report from the Digital Security Center pointed out that 1 out of every 5 cyberbullying complaints in secondary schools already contained content generated or altered by AI. The ease of access to free Deepfake apps makes these tools dangerously democratic: any student with a smartphone can, in minutes, create a humiliating image and share it in closed networks. The consequence is not only immediate embarrassment — the permanence of online content can lead to anxiety, depression and, in extreme cases, school dropout.

Why is it hard to detect deepfakes with the naked eye?

Next-generation generation AI models, such as those based on diffusion architectures and opposing networks, produce images with resolution and realism previously restricted to professional studios. Classic signs — irregular blinks, inconsistent shadows, or blurry edges — have virtually disappeared. According to experts heard by EdTech Magazine, the only reliable way to identify a forgery today is through digital forensic analysis, which checks metadata, lighting inconsistencies or artifacts left by the generator model. For parents and teachers, who do not have access to these tools, the challenge is immense. The recommendation is that schools establish partnerships with digital security companies and train teams to recognize signs of manipulation without relying exclusively on the human look.

How can schools protect students and educators from deepfakes?

Prevention begins with digital education. Embedding into the curriculum notions of ethics in the use of AI and discussions about online consent and reputation is the first step. Technically, institutions must adopt clear zero tolerance policies for creating and sharing deepfakes, as well as confidential denunciation channels. When false content is identified, quick removal depends on direct contact with social media platforms and triggering the General Data Protection Act (LGPD) to require the deletion of personal data. Some schools already invest in automated imaging systems, which compare suspicious content with original student photo databases. Legal measures against authors, even when minors, are also being discussed, but require balance between punishment and pedagogical character. A recent study showed that 57% of children use AI for body advice, which reinforces the need for broader digital literacy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Deepfakes in Education

Can a photo created by AI be used as evidence in school processes?

Nope. Deepfakes have no probative value and should be disregarded in disciplinary advice and syndicance unless their authenticity is confirmed by technical expertise.

How do I know an image of my son has been altered by AI?

Observe small inconsistencies, such as eye reflexes or skin texture that look artificial, but don't just trust intuition; ask for help from a digital security professional or use free detection tools.

Can schools be held responsible if they don't act against deepfakes?

Yeah. The omission may constitute failure in the duty of care and violation of student data protection, subjecting the institution to civil proceedings and administrative sanctions.

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Source: EdTech Magazine - Deepfakes in Education: Cyberbullying in the Age of AI