Generative adversarial networks-based AI-generated imagery authentication using frequency domain analysis

Abstract

In an era characterized by the prolific generation of digital imagery through advanced artificial intelligence, the need for reliable methods to authenticate actual photographs from AI-generated ones has become paramount. The ever-increasing ubiquity of AI-generated imagery, which seamlessly blends with authentic photographs, raises concerns about misinformation and trustworthiness. Authenticating these images has taken on critical significance in various domains, including journalism, forensic science, and social media. Traditional methods of image authentication often struggle to adapt to the increasingly sophisticated nature of AI-generated content. In this context, frequency domain analysis emerges as a promising avenue due to its effectiveness in uncovering subtle discrepancies and patterns that are less apparent in the spatial domain. Delving into the imperative task of imagery authentication, this paper introduces a novel Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) based AI-generated Imagery Authentication (GANIA) method using frequency domain analysis. By exploiting the inherent differences in frequency spectra, GANIA uncovers unique signatures that are difficult to replicate, ensuring the integrity and authenticity of visual content. By training GANs on vast datasets of real images, we create AI-generated counterparts that closely mimic the characteristics of authentic photographs. This approach enables us to construct a challenging and realistic dataset, ideal for evaluating the efficacy of frequency domain analysis techniques in image authentication. Our work not only highlights the potential of frequency domain analysis for image authentication but also underscores the importance of adopting generative AI approaches in studying this critical topic. Through this innovative fusion of AI and frequency domain analysis, we contribute to advancing image forensics and preserving trust in visual information in an AI-driven world.