Summary
India’s Election Commission has issued an advisory urging political parties to refrain from using deepfakes and other forms of misinformation on social media during the general elections. The advisory requires parties to remove any deepfake audio or video within three hours and identify and warn the individuals responsible. This action follows criticism and a court order to address the issue. The use of deepfakes and misinformation has already caused controversies during the ongoing elections.
Key Points
– India’s Election Commission has advised political parties to avoid using deepfakes and misinformation on social media during the general elections.
– Parties are required to remove any deepfake audio or video within three hours of becoming aware of them and identify and warn the creators of the manipulated content.
– Prime Minister Narendra Modi has complained about the use of fake voices to show leaders making false statements, alleging a conspiracy to sow tension.
– Several individuals from the social media teams of the Indian National Congress, the top opposition party, have been arrested for circulating a fake video.
– India has been grappling with the issue of deepfakes for months and has held meetings with social media companies to regulate their spread.
Why it Matters
The advisory from India’s Election Commission shows a recognition of the threat posed by deepfakes and misinformation during elections. The use of manipulated content can mislead voters and undermine the democratic process. By urging political parties to refrain from using deepfakes and taking action to remove them, the Election Commission aims to maintain fairness and integrity in the ongoing general elections.
FAQ
1. What is a deepfake?
A deepfake is a manipulated audio or video content that uses artificial intelligence to make it appear real but is actually fabricated or altered.
2. Why are deepfakes concerning during elections?
Deepfakes can be used to spread false information and mislead voters. They can be used to create fake statements from political leaders, influencing public opinion and undermining the democratic process.
3. How is India addressing the issue of deepfakes?
India’s Election Commission has issued an advisory to political parties, urging them to refrain from using deepfakes and requiring them to remove such content within three hours. The government has also held meetings with social media companies to regulate the spread of deepfakes. However, the nation is yet to codify its draft regulation on deepfakes into law.
Source Link: https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/07/india-elections-deepfakes/