As Japan navigates an increasingly digital landscape, artificial intelligence technology is presenting serious challenges that foreign residents should understand. Recent incidents reported by NHK highlight two critical areas where AI misuse is escalating: political disinformation through deepfake videos and the creation of non-consensual explicit imagery using celebrities' likenesses. According to NHK Politics, fake news-style videos created using generative AI are spreading rapidly across video platforms and social media as Japan's House of Representatives election approaches. These sophisticated deepfakes include fabricated statements attributed to real politicians, making it increasingly difficult for viewers to distinguish authentic content from manipulation. Experts warn that this trend is likely to intensify, posing significant threats to democratic processes and public discourse. The technology behind these deepfakes has become remarkably accessible. What once required extensive technical expertise can now be accomplished with readily available AI tools, allowing malicious actors to create convincing fake videos that mimic news broadcasts and official statements. For expats who may already face language barriers when consuming Japanese political news, these deepfakes present an additional layer of complexity in staying informed about local politics and policy decisions that affect their lives. The misuse of AI extends beyond politics into criminal territory. NHK reports that police have arrested a 31-year-old suspect for using generative AI to create explicit images of female celebrities and making them available online. Investigators discovered images of multiple female entertainers on the suspect's computer, according to sources close to the investigation. This case represents one of Japan's first major arrests specifically targeting AI-generated non-consensual intimate imagery. This arrest signals that Japanese law enforcement is beginning to address the legal gray areas surrounding AI-generated content. While traditional laws against defamation and obscenity exist, the application of these statutes to AI-generated material has been evolving. The case demonstrates authorities' willingness to pursue criminal charges against individuals who weaponize AI technology to victimize others, particularly women in the public eye. For foreign residents, these developments carry practical implications. First, critical media literacy has become essential. When encountering political content online, especially videos that seem newsworthy or shocking, verification through multiple reputable sources is crucial before sharing or acting on information. Official websites of political parties, established news organizations like NHK, and government portals provide more reliable information than social media posts or unfamiliar video channels. Second, the celebrity deepfake case underscores broader privacy concerns. While this arrest involved public figures, the same technology could theoretically be used against anyone whose images are available online. Expats should be mindful of their digital footprint and consider privacy settings on social media platforms, understanding that any publicly available photos could potentially be misused. The Japanese government and technology sector are responding to these challenges. According to NHK's technology coverage, while generative AI is being integrated into consumer electronics and home appliances to provide convenient services, the industry recognizes the need for responsible development. Major manufacturers are accelerating research into both AI applications and safeguards against misuse. Experts recommend several protective measures: verify political information through official channels, report suspected deepfakes to platform administrators, and remain skeptical of sensational content that lacks clear sourcing. For those who discover their own images being misused, Japanese law provides avenues for legal recourse, and consulting with legal professionals familiar with digital rights is advisable. As AI technology continues advancing, Japan's legal framework and social awareness are adapting, albeit reactively. Foreign residents should stay informed about these developments, as they affect both the information environment and personal digital security in their adopted home.