In the latest string of deepfake controversies, a manipulated video has surfaced online, featuring a digitally altered image of Bollywood luminary Kajol. This incident follows similar occurrences involving Rashmika Mandanna and Katrina Kaif.
Originally shared by English influencer Rosie Breen on TikTok as part of the ‘Get Ready With Me’ trend, the video underwent artificial intelligence (AI) manipulation, replacing Breen’s face with that of Kajol. Despite being debunked by fact-checking platforms like BoomLive, the misleading video, depicting Kajol changing clothes on camera, has circulated on social media, duping some users into believing it to be authentic.
This emergence adds to the growing apprehensions surrounding the misuse of deepfake technology, echoing concerns raised by the circulation of manipulated content involving other prominent actresses such as Katrina Kaif. Notably, Kaif faced a deepfake incident where an altered image from the film ‘Tiger 3’ was disseminated online, showcasing her in different attire.
The rising prevalence of such deceptive content underscores the urgent need for measures to address the misuse of deepfake technology, given its potential to spread misinformation rapidly on the internet and the resultant impact on public perception and the entertainment industry.
In response to the deepfake controversy involving Rashmika Mandanna, where a false video falsely portrayed her entering a lift, both social media users and Bollywood figures expressed concern. Amitabh Bachchan called for legal action against the dissemination of deceptive content.
An FIR was subsequently filed by the Delhi Police against unidentified individuals, and a 19-year-old from Bihar was questioned in connection with uploading the video on social media. These incidents collectively emphasize the imperative for proactive measures to curb the misuse of deepfake technology and safeguard against the proliferation of deceptive content that can potentially harm the reputations of public figures.