Lights, Camera, Deception?

Last month, Google launched Veo 3, its most advanced AI video generator to date. Producing clips so convincing they’re often indistinguishable from real footage, Veo 3 is being hailed as a breakthrough in synthetic media. But while some are embracing the tool’s creative potential, Veo’s realism signals a new stage in the eroding boundaries between truth and simulation.

Unlike earlier tools riddled with glitches and uncanny visuals, Veo is capable of producing hyper-realistic video clips with cinematic visuals, synchronized dialogue and sound effects. From eerily lifelike monologues to full-blown short films, users are flooding social media with Veo-generated clips that are often indistinguishable from real footage.

The tool’s near-flawless fidelity raises concerns about the increased plausibility of deepfakes. In tests by journalists and watchdogs, Veo 3 has also shown it can generate realistic, misleading content. While Google has added watermarking and safety filters, experts warn that the tool’s outputs are already circulating online in ways that could spark real-world harm.

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From building a strong internal culture to navigating RTO, DEI and AI, business leaders are facing growing pressure to meet evolving employee needs. In May, FGS Global’s Transformation & Change team surveyed the UK public and senior leaders to better understand the dynamics of today's workforce. 

Their research reveals a growing divide between employees and employers that is creating workplace tension. Below are some key takeaways:

• DEI: 

  • 47% of employees think DEI has gone too far.

  • Only 11% of employees say workplace DEI practices are important – despite emphasis placed by leaders.

• Transformation: 

  • 43% of employees say that change is clearly communicated – but middle managers lack the tools to lead transformation effectively.

• AI: 

  • 8% say their company's AI strategy is well communicated.

  • 14% feel leadership is transparent about AI-driven change.

• Hybrid Working: 

  • 37% rank flexibility in their top three workplace priorities – but motivations vary.

While the implications of these findings will vary by business, the core principles remain: leaders need to co-create with employees, communicate with empathy and authority and distinguish what’s fixed from what’s flexible to avoid deteriorating their credibility and trust. 

To learn more, download the report or sign up for future FGS Global Radar reports, visit the FGS Global Radar webpage.

Journalists today are navigating an increasingly complex and fast-changing landscape. Surveying over 1,500 U.S.-based journalists, Muck Rack’s 2025 State of Journalism report reveals some of the main challenges journalists are facing. Organizations that understand these challenges and adapt their earned media strategies accordingly can play a vital role in supporting journalists and help ensure their stories are told. Our colleagues from the Health Media Insights newsletter highlight the key takeaways:

1. Preventing the spread of misinformation. One-third of journalists cited misinformation and disinformation as the most serious threats to the future of journalism. To help combat this issue, position your organization as a reliable partner by providing journalists with access to credible sources, and subject matter experts and sharing fact-checked information and transparent messaging.

2. Understanding the role of AI. AI is reshaping journalism, with 77% of journalists now using AI tools like ChatGPT, transcription software and other writing tools daily. While these tools may enhance efficiency, concerns remain, with 18% of journalists citing unregulated or unchecked use of AI in journalism as their top concern. As AI becomes more prevalent, fact checking content is more important than ever for journalists, and ensuring the integrity of what your organization shares can help maintain trust and credibility.

3. Finding the local angle. One in five journalists are concerned about the shrinking footprint of local newsrooms and gaps in localized reporting. To help reporters contend with these gaps, consider pitching stories on the local impact of broader national health trends, offering localized data or access to local spokespeople.

To sign up for Health Media Insights, email health@fgsglobal.com.