In a proactive move to address the escalating concern surrounding deepfake content, India’s Information Technology Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced imminent measures to combat the proliferation of fabricated videos and images.

Vaishnaw revealed plans to introduce draft regulations within the next 10 days, aimed at curbing the dissemination of deceptive media.

Speaking at a media briefing in New Delhi, Vaishnaw emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, proposing penalties for both creators of deepfakes and platforms hosting such content. He outlined a comprehensive approach centered on four key pillars: detecting deepfakes and misinformation, preventing their circulation, fortifying reporting mechanisms, and fostering public awareness, Business Standard reported.

Engaging with leading AI companies, Nasscom, and acclaimed experts in the field, Vaishnaw underscored the consensus among stakeholders regarding the detrimental impact of deepfakes on society.

He highlighted the collective acknowledgment that stricter regulations are imperative, delineating that the regulations could involve amendments to existing frameworks or the formulation of entirely new laws.

Acknowledging recent instances of deepfake videos surfacing on social media, Vaishnaw admitted that while technology could identify deepfakes, perpetrators had circumvented detection methods such as watermarking and labeling.

The impending regulations will encompass all instances of deepfake content exhibited within India’s digital space, aiming to curb the dissemination of fabricated media that threatens to misinform and manipulate.

As India prepares to embark on this regulatory endeavor, the nation anticipates a proactive stance in combating the dissemination of deceptive and harmful digital content.