The National Archives and Records Administration is looking at blockchain technology to change how it authenticates images and videos amid the rise of deepfake, Federal News Network reported Monday.Â
The move follows the launch of machine learning algorithms designed to manipulate images and audio to make realistic videos of people talking about something or performing activities. Eric Douglas, a records management policy and program support specialist for NARA’s chief records officer, said integrating blockchain into the authentication process would help the agency and the public independently verify digital content.Â
“A shift to blockchain could provide the validity and trust that records management systems have traditionally performed and this shift may impact how records are organized, arranged and maintained over time,†he said.Â
However, Douglas noted NARA hasn’t determined resources to store information on the blockchain and train personnel to manage the technology. A report on federal adoption of blockchain previously issued by the Data Foundation and Booz Allen Hamilton called on the government to consider further exploration and adoption of blockchain as part of the Federal Data Strategy.