Devices, methods, and systems that thwart deepfake modification of media, and/or verify the identity of a person and that their communications have not been altered, among other applications. A device is configured to use sensors to record a corroborating data set (CDS) pertaining to the user in near real time. The CDS is encrypted or signed by a user's private key to create a cryptographic verification code (CVC). The CVC may be displayed, emitted, or otherwise distributed by the totem device. Alternatively, the CVC may be superimposed or embedded as metadata in media produced by the device. The CVC cannot be modified with deepfake techniques while image and video data may be modified with deepfake techniques. Analysis of media containing a CVC can confirm whether the CVC is authentic, and whether the CDS contained within is consistent with the depiction of the user in the media.