Deepfake tech, blending “deep learning” and “fake,” is making waves due to a viral video. In this video, it appears that actress Rashmika Mandanna is stepping out of an elevator, but it’s not her. The video was created using deepfake technology, replacing her face with that of an Instagram influencer.
This video raised concerns because it portrayed Rashmika in a completely different look than usual. Many actors and Rashmika herself have confirmed that the video is fake on social media.
What Comes Next?
Deepfakes have been a worry due to their potential to deceive the public by creating convincing fake videos. Now, people are urging the cybersecurity branch to investigate and find those responsible for creating this deepfake video. It’s a reminder of the challenges posed by such technology in terms of privacy and misinformation.
Rashmika Mandanna Thanks Amitabh Bachchan for Support Against Viral Deepfake
Actress Rashmika Mandanna expressed gratitude to veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan for his stance on taking legal action against a viral deepfake video featuring her. She called technology misuse “extremely scary” and appreciated Amitabh’s support. In a tweet, she said, “Thank you for standing up for me, sir. I feel safe in a country with leaders like you.”
Amitabh Bachchan Supports Legal Action
Amitabh Bachchan, Rashmika’s co-star in “Goodbye,” also voiced his support for legal action against the video, stating, “Yes, this is a strong case for legal action.”
IT Minister Issues Strong Warning to Social Media Platforms Over Rashmika Mandanna’s Deepfake
Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has issued a stern warning to social media platforms about their legal obligations in the fight against misinformation. He addressed the issue in light of a viral deepfake video featuring actress Rashmika Mandanna, where her face was swapped with that of British-Indian influencer Zara Patel.
The minister emphasized that the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is committed to ensuring the safety and trust of digital citizens. He pointed out that the IT rules implemented in April 2023 make it mandatory for platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation and promptly remove it when reported by users or the government.
Failure to comply with these rules can result in legal action under the
Indian Penal Code, stated the minister. He also highlighted the significant threat posed by deepfakes as a particularly dangerous form of misinformation that needs to be addressed by online platforms.
Deepfakes are manipulated photos or videos created using Artificial Intelligence. They have recently become a prominent source of misleading content, often leading to fake viral posts.
In the specific case of the Rashmika Mandanna deepfake video, Zara Patel initially shared it on Instagram, where she has over 400,000 followers. The video showed her entering an elevator in a black outfit, with her face transforming into Rashmika Mandanna’s as she entered the lift.
Rashmika Mandanna Reacts to Deepfake
Rashmika Mandanna expressed her concern about the deepfake video, emphasizing the urgent need to address such identity theft and misinformation. She highlighted how technology misuse is a grave threat, not only to her but to all individuals who can be vulnerable to such harm. Rashmika called for a collective effort to combat this issue before more people fall victim to identity-related harm.
