Govt vs Deepfake Threat | Government's Initiative to Tackle Deepfake Challenge | a Short Review

Govt vs Deepfake Threat | Government's Initiative to Tackle Deepfake Challenge

Govt vs Deepfake Threat | Government's Initiative to Tackle Deepfake Challenge |image illustration purpose only 

Centre's Call for Action on Deepfakes : 

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has scheduled a crucial meeting with representatives from various social media platforms on November 23, addressing the pressing issue of deepfakes. 

This proactive move reflects the government's determination to combat the misuse of technology, emphasizing the need for digital platforms to take stringent measures against the proliferation of deepfake content.

Rising Concerns Over Deepfake Misuse : 

The meeting follows the viral circulation of 'deepfake' videos targeting prominent actors, raising public outrage and concerns about the potential misuse of technology to create fake narratives. 

This alarming trend prompted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to issue a cautionary statement, highlighting the significant crisis and societal discontent that can arise from deepfakes generated by artificial intelligence.

Warning Against Inaction : 

Minister Vaishnaw has unequivocally warned that the safe harbour immunity clause, previously enjoyed by social media platforms, will no longer apply if adequate steps are not taken to remove deepfake content. 

The government's recent notice to companies underscores the seriousness of the issue, with the minister urging platforms to be more aggressive in addressing this growing concern.

Government's Proactive Measures : 

In a recent statement, Vaishnaw acknowledged the steps taken by platforms but emphasized the need for additional measures. 

A forthcoming meeting of all platforms is anticipated within the next 3-4 days, providing a platform for brainstorming and ensuring that platforms exert sufficient efforts in preventing and cleaning up their systems.

Standard Operating Procedure for Deepfake Mitigation : 

The government is set to convene with senior executives from social media and internet companies to discuss a standard operating procedure (SoP) for handling deepfake content. 

The proposed SoP is expected to outline dos and don'ts, offering a structured approach to tackle the challenges posed by deepfakes.

Government's Advisory and Legal Implications : 

A recent advisory to social media platforms stressed the importance of strict action against deepfake content, warning of potential damages, including the loss of safe harbour provisions. 

Section 66D of the IT Act, highlighted in the advisory, underscores the legal consequences for impersonation and cheating using communication devices or computer resources.

Prime Minister's Concerns and Awareness Call : 

Prime Minister Modi, echoing the government's concerns, emphasized the serious threat posed by deepfakes. 

He suggested that deepfake content should carry disclaimers for viewers and revealed discussions with the OpenAI team regarding this issue.

This aligns with the broader call for media to raise awareness about the misuse of artificial intelligence in generating deepfakes.

Conclusion : Collaborative Efforts to Combat Deepfake Threat : 

As the government takes proactive measures, including meetings with social media platforms and the formulation of a standard operating procedure, it underscores the collective responsibility to curb the growing threat of deepfakes. 

The emphasis on legal consequences, Prime Minister Modi's awareness call, and the impending discussions with major platforms signal a collaborative effort to safeguard against the misuse of technology and ensure the integrity of digital content.

Content Image Source Courtesy : 

https://www.ptinews.com/news/business/govt-to-meet-social-media-platforms-on-deepfake-issue-on-nov-23/693146.html

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