IT Rules under scrutiny: Due to Deepfake Threats

Context:

• Government is looking at IT rules to make WhatsApp disclose source ID. The basis for strengthening IT rules  are multiple deepfake videos of politicians circulating on WhatsApp. 

IT Rules Enforcement: Govt Takes Steps to Uncover First Sharers of Deepfake Content

• The government is in the process of seeking the identity of the people who first shared the videos on the platform.
• Such fake videos of politicians can cause harm to electoral integrity in India.
• IT Rules: Online messaging companies will be required to divulge the identity of a person who first sends a particular message on their platform. 
• The order for traceability, can be passed either by a court, or the government.

What is deep fake?

• Deepfake AI is a type of artificial intelligence used to create convincing images, audio and video hoaxes. The term describes both the technology and the resulting bogus content, and is a combination of deep learning and fake.

• Deepfakes often transform existing source content where one person is swapped for another. 
• They also create entirely original content where someone is represented doing or saying something they didn’t do or say.
• The greatest danger posed by deepfakes is their ability to spread false information that appears to come from trusted sources. 
• IT Act 2000: Section 66E of the act is applicable in cases of deepfake crimes that involve capturing, publishing or transmitting a person’s images in mass media, violating their privacy. 
  • This offense is punishable with imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to ₹2 lakh.

News Source: The Indian Express

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