Disinformation about the US-Iran war is fueled by fake AI satellite images

AI-generated fake satellite images are spreading online during wartime, raising serious concerns about misinformation. Recently, an Iranian news outlet shared a satellite image claiming that a US military base in Qatar had been destroyed. The image looked realistic, but researchers later discovered it was fake and created using artificial intelligence.

The picture posted by Tehran Times showed a “before and after” view of what it said was destroyed US radar equipment. However, experts found that the image was actually a manipulated version of a Google Earth photo from last year showing a US base in Bahrain. One clue that exposed the fake was a row of cars that appeared in exactly the same position in both the real and edited images.

Despite the manipulation, the image spread quickly on social media and gained millions of views in different languages. Experts say the rise of generative AI has made it much easier for governments, propagandists, and other actors to create convincing fake images during conflicts.

Open-source intelligence researcher Brady Africk said there has been a noticeable increase in manipulated satellite images during major global events such as the ongoing Middle East conflict. According to him, many of these fake images show signs of AI generation, including strange angles, blurred details, or objects that do not match real-world conditions. Some images are also edited manually by adding signs of damage to original satellite photos.

Another fake satellite image circulating online claimed that Israeli and US jets had attacked a painted silhouette of an aircraft in Iran while the real planes were moved elsewhere. Analysts identified errors in the image, including meaningless coordinates. Investigators also detected SynthID, an invisible watermark used to mark images created with Google AI tools.

Experts warn that fake satellite imagery is becoming part of modern information warfare. During conflicts, reliable information is often limited, and satellite images are used to understand what is happening on the ground. However, disinformation campaigns are now exploiting this system by spreading false visuals that appear credible.

Similar fake images have also appeared during other conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions between India and Pakistan. Analysts say such misinformation can influence public opinion, affect political decisions, and even impact financial markets.

Satellite intelligence companies are increasingly working to verify images. For example, during a recent attack near Niamey airport in Niger, fake images circulated online showing the airport terminal on fire. However, real satellite data confirmed that the pictures were AI-generated and not real.

Researchers warn that as AI technology improves, fake images will become even harder to detect. They advise people to be cautious and verify information before believing or sharing images online, especially during times of conflict when misinformation spreads quickly.