Government Drafts New Rules to Tackle Fake AI Videos, Watermark to Expose Deepfakes

In a major step to curb the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in creating fake videos and images, the government has drafted new rules that will mandate watermarking of AI-generated content. This initiative aims to help identify misleading content and prevent the spread of material that could disrupt public order or incite social unrest.

The draft guidelines, reported by ET Telecom, specify that all AI-generated videos and images must carry a clear label indicating their origin. “It is essential to implement watermarking to prevent cyber crimes arising from the misuse of AI,” said Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Electronics and IT and CEO of the India AI Mission.

Why This Move Matters
The new rules are expected to be particularly effective in stopping harmful AI-generated content, such as videos that threaten law and order or those depicting child sexual abuse. By clearly labeling AI-created media, authorities hope to make the public aware and curb the circulation of malicious content before it spreads.

Recent incidents highlight the urgency of such measures. Celebrities like Rashmika Mandanna and Alia Bhatt have been victims of fake AI videos that tarnished their reputations. Distinguishing between real and AI-generated content has been a major challenge, and the government aims to bring a permanent solution through this framework.

When Will the Rules Come Into Effect?
According to reports, the government is finalizing the revised guidelines, and the new framework is expected to be rolled out soon.

Case in Point: The Grok Controversy
The AI platform ‘Grok,’ developed by Elon Musk, recently sparked a surge of AI-generated explicit content on social media. Following public outcry, authorities ordered the removal of such material and sought a formal response from X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, underscoring the need for stricter regulation.

With these rules, India is taking a significant step toward ensuring AI technology is used responsibly, safeguarding citizens and society from digital manipulation.