LGA Launches Videos to Combat Deepfake Threats to Local Governments
Severity: Low (Score: 39.9)
Sources: Localgov, Wired-Gov, url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com
Published: · Updated:
Keywords: deepfakes, videos, synthetic, media, help, risks, local
Summary
The Local Government Association (LGA) has launched a video series aimed at helping councils understand and combat the risks posed by deepfakes and synthetic media. A 2025 survey revealed that one-third of local authorities consider deepfake-driven disinformation a significant risk, second only to cybersecurity. The videos cover topics such as the definitions of misinformation and disinformation, the creation of deepfakes, and practical steps for local government officials to identify and mitigate these threats. The series was developed by the LGA's Cyber, Digital and Technology team, in collaboration with a creative agency, and is now available for councils to access. The initiative aims to enhance awareness and resilience among local government officials, particularly in the context of upcoming elections. Cllr Richard Clewer emphasized the importance of addressing these risks to protect the integrity of local democracy. Key Points: • LGA launched a video series to educate councils on deepfake risks. • One-third of councils view deepfake-driven disinformation as a significant threat. • The series provides practical steps for identifying and mitigating deepfake threats.
Detailed Analysis
**Impact** Local government councils and their officers across the UK are the primary affected entities, with risks extending to democratic processes such as elections. A 2025 LGA survey found that one-third of council respondents view deepfake-driven disinformation as a major risk, second only to cybersecurity, while an additional 37% consider it a moderate risk. The potential consequences include misinformation spread, erosion of public trust, harassment, fraud, and disruption to local governance and community engagement. **Technical Details** The threat involves the use of AI-generated synthetic media, specifically deepfakes, to create realistic but false audio-visual content. Attack vectors include disinformation campaigns leveraging these synthetic media to manipulate public opinion or target individuals within councils. No specific malware, CVEs, or infrastructure details were provided. The tactics focus on social engineering and information manipulation, primarily at the delivery and exploitation stages of the kill chain. **Recommended Response** Councils should implement verification processes for content authenticity, enhance cybersecurity measures to secure systems, and increase awareness and training on synthetic media risks among staff. Rapid response protocols and transparency in communication are advised to mitigate impact. Monitoring for synthetic media use in communications and public information channels is recommended. No specific patches or IOCs were identified in the available information.
Source articles (3)
- New videos to help councils tackle deepfake threat launched — Localgov · 2026-05-20
The videos cover key topics including defining misinformation and disinformation, explaining what deepfakes are and the role of AI in producing them, highlighting the main risks for local government,… - LGA launches new videos to help councils combat rising risks from deepfakes — Wired-Gov · 2026-05-20
The Local Government Association (LGA) has launched a series of educational videos for councillors and council officers to help identify the growing risks posed by deepfakes and other forms of synthet… - LGA: Deepfakes and Synthetic Media Unpacked — url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com · 2026-05-20
Deepfakes and Synthetic Media unpacked is a short, accessible video series introducing what deepfakes and synthetic media are, why they matter for local government and what practical steps officers an…
Timeline
- 2025-01-01 — LGA survey conducted: The LGA conducted a survey revealing that a third of councils see deepfake disinformation as a major risk.
- 2026-05-20 — Video series launched: The LGA launched a video series to help councils understand and combat deepfake threats.
- 2026-05-20 — Cllr Clewer comments on deepfake risks: Cllr Richard Clewer stated that deepfakes are real risks for councils, especially for elections.
Related entities
- Fighting The Fakes: The Battle Against AI Disinformation (Campaign)
- Government (Industry)