CB-CID books case as deepfake AI video of CM Vijay…

In early September 2024, the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Investigation Department (CB-CID) launched an investigation into a series of AI-generated deepfake videos featuring Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. The videos, which falsely depicted the Chief Minister promising financial assistance to the public, were identified during routine cyber patrolling and circulated across various social media platforms, including Facebook.

What happened

The incident involved the distribution of fabricated videos featuring Hindi audio that directed viewers to contact a specific WhatsApp number. Authorities believe the primary intent behind these clips was to facilitate financial fraud by soliciting contact from those seeking assistance. Upon detecting the content, the CB-CID filed a formal case on September 1, 2024.

Preliminary investigations suggest that multiple AI-generated videos portraying the Chief Minister have been disseminated, with some appearing to originate from accounts purportedly based in Pakistan. In response, law enforcement has contacted Meta to secure logs and account details associated with the fake profiles, while simultaneously initiating processes to have the misleading content removed from digital platforms. The CB-CID has issued a public warning, advising citizens not to interact with the phone numbers or WhatsApp groups promoted in these videos. Officials continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and to inform friends and family about the nature of these deepfake scams as the investigation into the perpetrators remains ongoing.